Diplomacy with North Korea: Necessary, Likely, and Problematic
By Patrick Cronin
-Diplomatic outreach to North Korea is set to expand, driven by leaders' willingness to engage. This comes as Pyongyang rapidly develops its nuclear capabilities, making dialogue crucial for regional stability despite denuclearization remaining a long-term goal.
-Key obstacles include North Korea's nuclear commitment versus denuclearization demands, and the growing military partnership between Russia and North Korea. This new alignment complicates diplomatic isolation and may embolden Pyongyang.
-Successful diplomacy requires a flexible U.S.-South Korea alliance. They must strategically adapt to evolving threats and shared responsibilities to maintain regional stability, given North Korea's advancements and the changing geopolitical landscape.