A third explanation holds that the administration constrained Kelly’s flexibility in Pyongyang in October 2002, unintentionally creating the impasse. Washington did not intend to terminate the Agreed Framework, waiting for the North Koreans to nullify the agreement. When Kelly arrived for the highest level U.S. talks with the DPRK since Bush had assumed office, North Korea wanted to resume dialogue, but the American diplomat, following instructions, acted in a highly “arrogant manner” when he made accusations. As expected, Pyongyang reacted with anger and hostility, initiating another round of crisis diplomacy.66 Having trapped North Korea, Bush then could implement Hawk Engagement. As one U.S. intelligence official who attended White House meetings in late 2002 told Hersh, matching public remarks about the desire for compromise was much private talk of vindication: