China–DPRK Summit: Xi Jinping wrapped up a rare Pyongyang visit, praising “traditional friendship” and saying he reached “important consensus” with Kim Jong Un, while notably keeping nuclear language out of the public messaging. Military Signaling: Xinhua framed Xi’s remarks as opposition to “revive militarism” and “hegemonism,” as analysts warn Pyongyang may avoid deeper military escalation even as China boosts defense-level engagement. Denuclearization Pushback: The US and Japan reiterated “complete denuclearization” in Tokyo and rejected Russia’s claim that North Korea’s nuclear drive is a “closed” issue. EU–Seoul Condemnation: Lee Jae Myung and EU leaders issued a joint statement calling North Korea–Russia military cooperation illegal and tied to Russia’s war effort, while expressing “grave concern” over Pyongyang’s nuclear and missile programs. Cyber & Finance: CrowdStrike says North Korea-linked “Famous Chollima” drove 47% of state-backed tech intrusions, using AI deepfakes and stolen identities; separate reporting highlights North Korea-linked crypto theft of about $2B in 2025. Human Rights Diplomacy: South Korea’s unification ministry argues inter-Korean peace and dialogue can improve DPRK human rights, after Seoul and the EU urged Pyongyang to allow international access. Economic Pressure: Daily NK reports rice and corn prices surged in North Korean markets, deepening food strain ahead of seasonal supply improvements.