President Trump has officially pulled out of the upcoming summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
While speaking at the White House, the president cited Pyongyang's "open hostility" for the cancellation, and warned that the U.S. military is ready to respond to any reckless acts if necessary.
President Trump said the summit can still take place, but he will not compromise the safety and security of the U.S.
He touted America's nuclear capabilities, but went on to say he hopes to never use them.
President Trump thanked Kim for releasing the three American hostages, and said he hopes they will someday have a chance to meet.
READ President Trump's official letter to Kim Jong Un here.The president said the sanctions and the maximum pressure campaign will continue, adding, he is hopeful everything will work out.
Meanwhile, North Korea is claiming that it has demolished its nuclear testing site.
Several foreign journalists were outside the site in Punggye-Ri Thursday, and said they heard a series of explosions.
At least three entrance tunnels to the underground site and observation towers were reportedly destroyed.
 A man watches a TV screen showing file footage of U.S. President Donald Trump, right, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, left, during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Wednesday, May 23, 2018. (Photo/AP/Lee Jin-man) |
The move is meant to show North Korea's commitment to stopping its nuclear tests, but still falls short of complete de-nuclearization.