North Korea has broken its silence on the diplomatic thaw with Washington and Seoul, saying that it is driving the “peace offensive” and rejecting suggestions that sanctions forced it to the negotiating table.
The commentary by the state-run KCNA late on Tuesday did not directly mention the summits but noted the “dramatic atmosphere for reconciliation” with the South and “a sign of change” with the U.S.
It said Pyongyang’s overtures came from a position of strength, not from weakness. “The dialogue peace offensive of the DPRK is an expression of self-confidence as it has acquired everything it desires,” it said.
It also slammed hawks in Washington, Seoul and Tokyo for questioning the sincerity and motivation behind the North's willingness to step back from the brink.
