China-North Korea Summit: Xi Jinping wrapped up a two-day state visit to Pyongyang, pledging to elevate ties to “new heights” and calling for deeper cooperation in diplomacy, law enforcement, military exchanges, trade, agriculture, construction, science and technology—while North Korea’s KCNA framed the relationship as “most important top-priority strategic work.” Nuclear Silence: Both sides avoided public mention of denuclearization and the US; North Korean media highlighted friendship and “new chapter” language instead. IAEA Alarm: The IAEA’s Rafael Grossi said inspectors linked a newly built structure at Yongbyon to a possible uranium enrichment facility, calling it a “cause for serious concern.” Coal Evasion Claim: A South Korean lawmaker alleged North Korea illegally exported about 1.5 million tons of coal, potentially disguised as Russian origin, using North Korean and foreign-flagged ships. Regional Deterrence: South Korea and the US will hold a Nuclear Consultative Group meeting in Seoul to discuss strengthening allied nuclear deterrence as Pyongyang pushes its nuclear and weapons programs. Nuclear Arms Race Backdrop: ICAN reported global nuclear weapons spending hit a record $119bn in 2025, with North Korea among the states increasing outlays. Jeju Resumes Exchange: Jeju sent medical and agricultural supplies to North Korea after a 16-year hiatus, signaling renewed inter-Korean cooperation.