Defector Reveals North Korea's Strategic Shift Amid Global Tensions

Ri Il Gyu, a high-ranking North Korean defector, disclosed that North Korea aims to reopen nuclear talks with the U.S. if Donald Trump is re-elected. Ri outlined North Korea's focus on bolstering ties with Russia, eliciting economic aid, and negotiating with Japan. His defection sheds light on Pyongyang's internal struggles and strategic plans.

Ri Il Gyu, a former high-ranking North Korean diplomat who defected to South Korea, has revealed Pyongyang's intent to reboot nuclear negotiations with the U.S. should Donald Trump be re-elected as president.

In his first international interview, Ri highlighted that North Korea is prioritizing its foreign policy towards Russia, the U.S., and Japan. He noted Pyongyang's strategy to lift sanctions, remove its terror sponsorship designation, and gain economic aid by engaging with the Trump administration.

Ri criticized North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's previous diplomatic missteps and emphasized the potential shift to a foreign-ministry-led approach. He also underscored North Korea's efforts to strengthen ties with Russia and initiate negotiations with Japan for economic support.

(With inputs from agencies.)