Talks held between North Korea and the United States, the first substantive meeting between both sides since February , ended without progress on Oct. 5. But there is a sense of urgency on North Korea's part for some sign of movement as its self-imposed year-end deadline for action in the impasse approaches. With U.S. national election campaigns in full swing, Iran on a path to escalation and U.S. President Donald Trump facing growing domestic political issues, the North may be calculating it should press its advantage while it can. Just as it is highly aware that the White House wants to avoid a disruptive confrontation , North Korea is also aware of the unique opportunity that Trump’s dealmaker persona offers. After weekend talks in Stockholm ended, lead North Korean negotiator Kim Myong Gil said they broke down because the United States did not make an adequate offer.