“While sanctions relief may not be on the table, the inclusion of an easing on the importation of luxury goods in North Korea's demands may be revealing. It suggests that while the large-scale smuggling of items such as coal or petroleum documented by the U.N. Panel of Experts is something that the regime has been able to maintain, it has faced more significant challenges in acquiring the luxury goods that are needed to maintain the loyalty of the elite. It also suggests the potential for growing discontentment among the elite at the current situation.”
19 Aug 2021
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