U.S. Cautious About Inter-Korean Dialogue

The U.S. welcomed impending talks between the two Koreas before North Korea abruptly canceled them on Tuesday, but stressed that dialogue with the U.S. is a separate issue.

U.S. State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Monday that Washington will continue to support improved inter-Korean relations.

She added the U.S. had been clear that North Korea must first live up to its international obligations and take steps to denuclearize if any talks are to take place between Washington and Pyongyang.

It is unclear whether disappointment at the statement influenced North Korea’s decision to call off the talks with Seoul.