US officials say North Korea denuclearization remains top priority

U.S. State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asia, David Wylezel, told a forum in Washington that the Trump administration continues to regard North Korean denuclearization as a high‑level policy priority. He said the United States is waiting for a clear diplomatic signal from Kim Jong Un before re‑engaging in talks, but will maintain "forceful peace" through sanctions, cyber measures and actions to cut off North Korea’s revenue streams such as cryptocurrency theft.

Wylezel noted that recent statements by President Trump and the joint fact sheet with Chinese President Xi reaffirmed the commitment to denuclearization, echoed in the G7 communique. While the United States signals willingness to talk if Kim is ready, North Korean officials, including Kim Yo‑Jong, reiterated that nuclear weapons are a core interest and that denuclearization is not on the table.