Lance Statement on the Release of American Hostages in North Korea

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) issued the following statement after the release of three American hostages detained in North Korea.

“I commend President Trump and Secretary Pompeo for their leadership and diplomatic successes on the Korean peninsula.  The release of the American hostages is a major breakthrough and comes on the heels of news of a formal end to the Korean War and a promise to end nuclear missile testing in North Korea.  The Kim regime is clearly feeling the international pressure brought on by the sanctions passed by Congress and the diplomatic overtures made by the Trump Administration.

“While these recent positive developments display Kim Jong Un’s willingness to normalize relations with the U.S., South Korea and other nations, history reminds us that the Kim regime has betrayed the trust and confidence of the world community before.  The Administration and Congress must continue thoughtful and serious review of progress in North Korea, taking nothing for granted, but working toward real peace in that part of the world.”