News analysis

A first test of 'peace through strength' diplomacy in Singapore

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On Thursday night, President Donald Trump was doing what he does best - playing to a pumped up capacity crowd, in the 7,373-seat gymnasium of a high school in Elkhart, Indiana.

"USA!! USA!!" The crowded roared as he reminded them that earlier that day, he had received three Americans released from jail in North Korea, ahead of his June 12 summit in Singapore with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on May 13, 2018, with the headline A first test of 'peace through strength' diplomacy in Singapore. Subscribe