North Korean officials dismissed the recent reduction in joint military drills between the United States and South Korea, calling the move insignificant. Kim Yo-jong, a senior adviser and sister of leader Kim Jong-un, issued the statement on Wednesday.
She also said Pyongyang was “unaware” of any direct communication with Washington. That comment contradicted President Trump’s earlier claim that Kim Jong-un had responded positively to his personal outreach.
The remarks came amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to restart talks between the two nations. Trump had previously highlighted a potential breakthrough in relations, citing a warm exchange with the North Korean leader.
Kim Yo-jong’s statement suggested that any perceived progress was overstated. She emphasized that the scaled-back drills did not address core security concerns held by the North.
Analysts noted that the dismissal could signal a cooling of momentum in negotiations. The reduction in exercises had been seen as a concession to encourage denuclearization discussions.
Pyongyang has long condemned the drills as provocative rehearsals for invasion. Washington and Seoul have defended them as routine defensive measures.
No official response from the White House has been issued yet. Observers expect further clarification in the coming days regarding the status of diplomatic channels.
