With Donald Trump back in office and traditional diplomatic channels between Washington and Pyongyang on ice, speculation is mounting over who — if anyone — might step in to revive stalled nuclear talks.

One possible candidate flagged in recent months has been Russia, given its close ties to the DPRK and ongoing diplomatic negotiations with the U.S. But these talks have stalled, and Trump’s increasing impatience with Moscow could end up making it difficult for Russia to play a mediating role between Washington and Pyongyang. 

Beyond Asia, the Middle East — particularly Gulf states like Saudi