Trump, Xi may 'talk the talk' on N.K. denuclearization, expect little new

During a press meeting, the official elaborated that China's strategic interest lies in drawing North Korea closer to itself and away from Russia. Conversely, Trump is keen on meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to strike a deal, a move that China does not endorse. The official predicted that China would prefer North Korea to avoid highly provocative actions and to prevent it from aligning too closely with the U.S.

The assessment comes as North Korea has indicated it will not relinquish its nuclear program. This occurs while Trump seeks to re-engage with Kim, and Xi works to strengthen ties with Pyongyang amid its growing cooperation with Russia and improved relations with Beijing.

Some observers have expressed concern that Trump's administration might shift its focus from complete denuclearization to more limited goals like arms control, tension reduction, and risk management, especially as Trump pursues renewed summitry with Kim. Earlier this month, a White House official stated that U.S. policy on North Korea "has not changed," but stopped short of explicitly reaffirming the commitment to denuclearization.