In brief
During a recent meeting, President Trump revealed plans to provide South Korea with access to U.S. nuclear submarine technology, emphasizing the modernization of their military alliance. President Lee clarified that South Korea seeks nuclear fuel for submarines, not weaponry, to aid U.S. activities in the region amidst ongoing threats from North Korea.
GYEONGJU, South Korea (AP) — The United States is set to share sensitive nuclear submarine technology with South Korea, as revealed by President Trump on social media after his meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
In their discussions, President Lee emphasized the importance of modernizing the U.S.-South Korea alliance and mentioned plans for increased military spending to alleviate the financial burden on the United States. He clarified that previous conversations regarding nuclear submarines were misunderstood, stating that South Korea is seeking nuclear fuel rather than weaponry.
President Lee argued that equipping South Korea with nuclear-powered submarines would bolster U.S. military operations in the region.
U.S. nuclear submarine technology is considered among the most sensitive for military use, with strict controls on its dissemination. Despite a recent agreement involving the UK and Australia for nuclear submarine technology, there has been no direct transfer of U.S. technology.
The announcement comes as tensions escalate with North Korea's recent showcase of its military power, including successful cruise missile tests, escalating security concerns for both South Korea and the U.S. Trump's post follows closely ahead of a scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, further highlighting the geopolitical intricacies of the region.
Pentagon officials have yet to comment on President Trump's announcement regarding the transfer of nuclear submarine technology to South Korea.
___
Boak reported from Tokyo, with contributions from AP writer Konstantin Toropin in Washington.
