Singapore: Restrictions June 10-14 amid Trump-Kim Summit /update 2

Event

Despite announcing its cancelation in late May, US President Donald Trump will indeed take part in a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jung-un in Singapore on Tuesday, June 12, as originally planned. The summit is set to begin at 09:00 (local time). The venue for the summit has not yet been announced (as of June 5).

Traffic and other restrictions will be in place between Sunday, June 10, and Thursday, June 14, in parts of the city-state. This zone include the neighborhoods of Tanglin, Newton, and Orchard, home to the Shrangri-La hotel and other venues where the summit could potentially take place. Heightened security measures such as road closures, increased security personnel deployments, and identity checks are expected during the above period.

Context

The summit was initially confirmed by the White House in early March and preparations have been underway since. The summit was then canceled on May 24 by the US before being reinstated. Singapore was likely chosen because it maintains diplomatic relations with both North Korea and the US, and has been the site of other high-profile summits.

Relations between the two Koreas and the US seem to be entering into a period of (rocky) détente following a historic meeting between Kim and South Korean President at the DMZ in April 2018.

Advice

Individuals present in Singapore during the June 12 summit are advised to anticipate heightened security measures throughout the city and increased traffic congestion (particularly at major travel hubs) and allow for additional travel time. Adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.