Leif-Eric Easley
ON THE RECORD · 7 verbatim quotes · every quote source-verified
“But that will probably be after the U.S. midterm elections when Trump is expected to be in a weaker domestic political position and in search of headline-grabbing foreign policies.”
Leif-Eric Easley · said date not stated · reported 2026-08-21
Leif-Eric Easley commented on the likely timing of future talks between North Korea and the U.S.
“After this strategic play has run its course, Kim may seek further economic and reputational benefits from Washington,”
Leif-Eric Easley · said date not stated · reported 2026-08-21
Leif-Eric Easley assessed North Korea's diplomatic strategy toward Washington.
“are essential for military forces to be ready and capable of doing their jobs,”
Leif-Eric Easley · said date not stated · reported 2026-08-17
Easley said the joint exercises are essential to military readiness.
“Scaling them back can damage alliance coordination, slow the process of South Korea taking on greater responsibility for its own defense, and weaken deterrence against possible conflicts in Asia,”
Leif-Eric Easley · said date not stated · reported 2026-08-17
Easley warned in emailed comments that scaling back drills would weaken deterrence in Asia.
“Trump’s recent social media posts about Kim Jong Un suggest a willingness to re-engage, but North Korea is busy profiting from Russia’s war against Ukraine while modernizing its own military,”
Leif-Eric Easley · said date not stated · reported 2026-08-17
Easley said Trump's overtures are unlikely to draw Kim Jong Un back to talks.
“She also seeks to justify Pyongyang’s weapons programs and divide Seoul and Washington by criticizing upcoming military exercises.”
Leif-Eric Easley · said date not stated · reported 2025-07-28
Leif-Eric Easley analyzed North Korea's criticism of upcoming South Korea-U.S. military exercises.
“Kim Yo Jong’s comments are an effort to advance national pride by portraying North Korea in a superior position, despite its economic struggles and international pariah status,”
Leif-Eric Easley · said date not stated · reported 2025-07-28
Leif-Eric Easley evaluated the domestic messaging behind Kim Yo Jong's statement.