Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump will pursue the "complete denuclearization of North Korea," a White House official announced, amid speculation over Trump's recent reference to North Korea as a "nuclear power," which led to questions about any potential shift in U.S. policy.

According to Yonhap News Agency, National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes clarified the administration's stance shortly after North Korea's Korean Central News Agency reported a visit by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to a nuclear-material production base and a nuclear weapons institute. This visit was seen as an effort to underscore North Korea's military capabilities.

"President Trump will pursue the complete denuclearization of North Korea, just as he did in his first term," Hughes stated, responding to inquiries from Yonhap News Agency. He emphasized that Trump's previous relationship with Kim Jong-un, characterized by a combination of firmness and diplomacy, led to the unprecedented leader-level commitment to denuclearization.

A U.S. government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, reiterated earlier that there has been no change in the United States' policy toward North Korea. The official noted, "There has not been any change of policy regarding the DPRK," referring to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name.

The situation has drawn attention following Trump's acknowledgment of North Korea as a nuclear power, a term U.S. officials generally avoid to prevent it from being perceived as recognition of Pyongyang's nuclear status. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also used the term during his confirmation hearing earlier this month.

While no changes in U.S. policy have been officially announced, there is anticipation regarding Trump's possible reengagement with Kim Jong-un. In a recent Fox News interview, President Trump expressed his intention to reconnect with the North Korean leader, signaling potential developments in U.S.-North Korea relations.