Oxon Hill: A senior aide to U.S. President Donald Trump underscored the need for dialogue to address security issues, emphasizing that Trump is a person who “can show up” with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Richard Grenell, the special presidential envoy for special missions on North Korea and other issues, made these remarks as Trump has voiced his openness to reengaging with the reclusive leader in Pyongyang. Grenell spoke during the 2025 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Oxon Hill, Maryland, stating, “I don’t think that talking means that you’re weak. I actually think talking is a tactic to get to a goal.”

Grenell elaborated on the importance of diplomatic engagement, asserting that President Trump could effectively engage Kim Jong-un and also emphasized the need for conversations with the Russians. This approach, he noted, is crucial for pursuing an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Trump, in a media interview last month, indicated his intention to reach out to Kim again for talks, raising the prospects of resuming his direct diplomacy with Kim. During his first term, Trump held three in-person meetings with Kim, starting with the summit in Singapore in 2018.

Grenell further affirmed that the Trump administration does not seek any “regime change” in foreign countries. He clarified, “We articulate very clearly under Donald Trump. We don’t do regime change.” He stressed that the administration’s focus is on enhancing America’s strength and prosperity rather than intervening in other countries’ internal matters.

In December, Trump appointed Grenell, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to Germany, as the envoy for special missions. Grenell’s role, he explained, covers “some of the hottest spots” around the world, including North Korea.