Donald Trump claims positive rapport with Kim Jong Un

US President Donald Trump has indicated a positive rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, claiming that Kim has always treated him with “great respect.” Speaking to reporters, Trump stated that he and Kim understand each other and that their relationship aims to make the Korean Peninsula safer.

Trump confirmed that communication with Kim is “very positive,” though he did not provide specific details regarding the current stage of discussions. This follows previous meetings between the two leaders during Trump's first term.

In a related move, Trump has instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to “substantially reduce” joint military exercises with South Korea. Trump described the drills as costly and “totally inappropriate and hostile” toward North Korea. He expressed dissatisfaction with previous US agreements to participate in these maneuvers, citing his relationship with Kim as a primary reason for the shift in policy.