North Korea’s strategy is likely to exploit nuclear weapons as a deterrence against American and South Korean retaliation to its own aggressions.

Ahead of negotiations, the North Korean government can boost their credibility by proactively addressing nuclear safety and security.

If the current break continues past the proposed Trump-Kim summit in May, it could potentially be the fourth longest gap in missile testing.

North Korea has remained silent on the invitation and the decision to have a summit meeting. This has led to speculation about North Korea’s true intent.

If Trump’s decision to meet with Kim was unexpected, Xi’s desire to meet with Kim prior to his summit meetings with Trump shouldn’t come as a surprise.

While many have expressed relief over reaching a tentative deal on the KORUS FTA, Korea still could get caught between China and the United States.