North Korea has been pushing for more sanctions relief before it continues denuclearization , while the US has demanded greater evidence that the country is prepared to reduce its nuclear arsenal. "The United States remains ready to engage North Korea in a constructive negotiation," the spokesperson said. If he acquiesces to North Korean demands and puts someone else front and center, that could be perceived as weakness by the North Koreans. Pyongyang last conducted a "tactical" weapons test in November 2018. United States Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun has also dismissed the significance of Pyongyang's non-nuclear or ballistic missile tests.

Source: CNN April 18, 2019 08:05 UTC