The recent comments from North Korean defector Ri Il Kyu have returned me to thinking about the intricate dynamics at work in international relations. I find it most interesting how one leader can affect the overall diplomatic strategy.
I have always had a feeling that North Korea's nuclear ambitions are core to their foreign policy, but Ri makes one realize just how central they really are. It is quite striking to think that they would treat the prospect of a Trump return to the White House as a "once-in-a-thousand-year chance." I wonder what personal relationships between world leaders can do to shape global events.
By all appearances, North Korea seeks to use its nuclear program for extracting economic concessions and easing the pain of sanctions. To me, it's something of a dangerous game they're playing, but I do see the logic involved. Essentially, they are looking to use the greatest bargaining chip to wriggle some room for their economy.
What's interesting is the fact that North Korea allied with Russia, which isn't really something I've been considering. It would seem this is a mutual situation where North Korea gets much-needed supplies in return for Russia getting military supplies. How this comes out and affects the bigger picture in geopolitics will be something to watch.
I never had much faith in North Korea's giving up their nuclear weapons, and Ri's comments confirm that for me. What does sound a little more realistic is a freeze of their nuclear program for sanction easing. Not the best bet but, arguably, a step in the right direction.
At least controversial was the unique approach to diplomacy with North Korea that Trump had. I remember being surprised by the "love letters" and summit meetings. As I always say, even though I'm not sure how effective it was in the long run, it's clear North Korea saw value in that personal connection. That definitely makes me wonder if that kind of unconventional diplomacy might play a role in future negotiations.
The forthcoming U.S. presidential election will be significant for North Korea's strategy. I find it interesting how they might want to try and influence the election outcome or be better off depending on who the winner will be. This is typical of just how politically interlinked the world may be, and how an election from one country can have very far-reaching effects.