American President Donald Trump met on Tuesday in Tokyo with the families of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea during the Cold War, an issue that has strained Japan's relations with Pyongyang for decades. Trump emphasized the total support of the United States for these families and for Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, expressing his willingness to discuss this matter in the future.
Trump also reiterated his desire to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, although there are no concrete plans in this regard. North Korea acknowledged in 2002 the abduction of 13 Japanese citizens, while Japan believes the total number of abductees is higher. Prime Minister Takaichi stated that she will do everything possible to resolve this issue, highlighting the emotional impact on the affected families. Trump also met with these families in 2017 and 2019, demonstrating a consistent commitment to this sensitive issue.