Kim is in the midst of a power struggle with his top generals over this denucluarization matter. What general is willing to give up one of his biggest toys?
I think Kim, who was raised and educated in the west, understands the prosperity that his people can enjoy when open and free trade is established between the Hermit Kingdom and the rest of the world.
I think Kim sees the China model, where they have struck an uneasy balance between economic capitalism and social totalitarianism. He wants to repeat that model for NK, keeping him and his family in power, but providing opportunities to his people.
It will be telling if there are any sudden ‘retirements’ of some NK generals in the near future.
NK military has been keeping him alive, they know his every move. Deep state there just like here does not like threats to its power.
Kim is likely quite scared for himself in the turbulence that must be going on amongst the leadership in NK. It is probably a valid concern on his part. We also know that China has the most influence on the Norks and they have their own interests in play here. Trump has a lot of options and I think he has a good team in place to help him navigate the negotiation and make no mistake..... this is still a negotiation.
It will be telling if there are any sudden ‘retirements’ of some NK generals in the near future.
***************************************
When I see him in the midst of some of his top generals, they look to be in their eighties.
Very well stated
I would add that the old men are the problem obstructing the youth that want more, that want better, that want light at night