Trump Approval South Korea Nuclear-Powered Submarine Deal

In a major defense and trade move, US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that South Korea has received approval to build nuclear-powered submarines, marking a historic step in the US-South Korea military partnership. The announcement came a day after both countries finalized a broad trade agreement covering investment and shipbuilding.

Trump met South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday in Gyeongju during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. During their talks, Lee requested US approval for fuel access for nuclear-propelled submarines, emphasizing that the submarines would not be armed with nuclear weapons but would enhance South Korea’s ability to track North Korean and Chinese submarines.

“I have given them approval to build a Nuclear Powered Submarine, rather than the old fashioned, and far less nimble, diesel-powered submarines that they have now,” Trump said on Truth Social. He added that the vessels will be built at the Philadelphia Shipyards in the United States, signaling a significant boost for US shipbuilding and defense exports.

The two leaders also highlighted peace and stability in the region. A luncheon during the summit featured a dessert inscribed with the word “PEACE!”, echoing the leaders’ commitment to act as peacemakers on the Korean Peninsula.

Despite this progress, tensions with North Korea remain high. Pyongyang has continued deepening military and economic ties with Russia, ignoring diplomatic overtures from Seoul. Trump also confirmed that a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would not take place during his visit, ending speculation over a potential summit.

The approval for South Korea to construct nuclear-powered submarines underlines the strengthening US-South Korea strategic alliance, bolsters regional security, and highlights a renewed focus on shipbuilding and defense cooperation between the two nations.