US on Possibility of North Korea Disarmament Talks: "Policy of Complete Denuclearization Remains Unchanged"

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] The U.S. government has drawn a clear line regarding the possibility of arms control negotiations with North Korea, as suggested by some, stating that there is no change in its North Korea policy goal of complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

According to the State Department, Ned Price, the spokesperson, said during a press briefing on the 28th (local time), when asked whether the U.S. could hold arms control talks with North Korea, "I want to make this very clear. There is no change in the U.S. (North Korea) policy."

Spokesperson Price emphasized, "The U.S. policy toward North Korea remains focused on the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and we remain open to diplomacy with North Korea." He also said, "We continue to engage with North Korea and are committed to pursuing diplomatic approaches," adding, "We are ready to meet with North Korea unconditionally and urge North Korea to engage in serious and sustained diplomacy."

He continued, "In response to North Korea's ongoing threats and provocations, we have taken measures to strengthen defense and deterrence together with our allies and partners, and we continue to closely consult with South Korea, Japan, and other allies and partners on the best ways to address North Korea."

Earlier, Bonnie Jenkins, the Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, sparked controversy by stating at a conference hosted by a think tank in Washington that "if North Korea wants dialogue, arms control (negotiations) could be an option." Price's clarification on that day reaffirmed that the U.S. government's goal is the complete elimination of North Korea's nuclear weapons program, not just the reduction of nuclear weapons.

Additionally, Spokesperson Price commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin's warning that if South Korea supplies weapons to Ukraine, the relationship between South Korea and Russia would collapse, stating, "I emphasize that countries around the world will determine the form and level of support they wish to provide to Ukraine."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.