N. Korea releases 3 Americans held captive; men returning with Pompeo

North Korea on Wednesday released three U.S. citizens who had been held captive, another sign of goodwill ahead of a planned summit with President Trump.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo secured their release during his second meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and left the country with the three Americans aboard his plane.

Mr. Trump made the announcement Wednesday morning, Washington time.

Mr. Pompeo said the three men “were all thrilled when we knew we were out of North Korean air space. [They] were happy to be with us on this plane, to be sure.”

“I welcomed them back,” Mr. Pompeo told reporters traveling with him. “I’m thrilled that we have them back. President Trump set conditions for this to happen, and I am thrilled with that.”