President Lee's Request for Nuclear Submarines Met with Trump's Concern over Escalation
Trump Expresses Concerns over Escalation in Response to Nuclear Sub Request at US-ROK Summit
On October 29, 2025, South Korean President Lee and US President Donald Trump held a summit in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province. The summit was convened to discuss the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and avenues for cooperation between the two countries, with in-depth discussions focusing on ways to strengthen South Korea's security. President Lee requested that President Trump authorize the supply of fuel for US nuclear-powered submarines, seeking US cooperation to bolster South Korea's security capabilities. President Lee's request reflects South Korea's concerns about the escalating security threats on the Korean Peninsula, including North Korea's continued nuclear development and missile launches. President Lee sought to secure US support through this summit, arguing that nuclear-powered submarines could significantly enhance the operational capabilities of submarines and contribute to strengthening South Korea's naval power. However, President Trump expressed a cautious stance on the issue, emphasizing a prudent approach that considers the complexity of the security situation on the Korean Peninsula.
President Lee emphasized to President Trump the need to strengthen South Korea's defense capabilities, explaining the positive impact that allowing the supply of nuclear submarine fuel would have on South Korea's security. President Lee asserted that nuclear-powered submarines could play a crucial role in strengthening South Korea's maritime security and enhancing deterrence against threats from neighboring countries. Furthermore, President Lee added that the introduction of nuclear-powered submarines could also contribute to maintaining the security balance on the Korean Peninsula. However, President Trump expressed concerns that allowing the supply of nuclear submarine fuel could further complicate the security situation on the Korean Peninsula, stating that careful consideration was necessary. President Trump pointed out that the security situation on the Korean Peninsula remains unstable, and that allowing the supply of nuclear submarine fuel could trigger a regional arms race. He also emphasized that while the United States supports South Korea's security as an ally, it cannot tolerate any actions that undermine peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
During the summit, President Lee presented President Trump with the Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea's highest honor bestowed upon foreign heads of state, and a replica of the gold crown from the Cheonmachong tomb, a relic of the Silla Dynasty, as a gesture of traditional Korean hospitality and respect. The Order of Mugunghwa symbolizes the longstanding friendship and alliance between the United States and South Korea. The Cheonmachong gold crown replica is also a valuable gift symbolizing South Korea's history and culture, demonstrating President Lee's efforts to promote South Korea's cultural values and enhance understanding between the two countries. These gift exchanges are seen as having softened the atmosphere of the summit and strengthened the personal bond between the two leaders. President Lee's diplomatic gestures are expected to further solidify US-ROK relations and positively impact future cooperation between the two countries.
President Trump revealed his perception of the security situation on the Korean Peninsula during his meeting with President Lee, stating, "I know that you (South and North Korea) are officially in a state of war on the Korean Peninsula, and I will see what we can do to get it all sorted out." President Trump's remarks can be interpreted as emphasizing the US role in easing tensions and establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula. He also suggested that the United States is willing to actively engage in promoting dialogue and cooperation between South and North Korea to resolve the Korean Peninsula issue. However, President Trump's remarks can also be interpreted as maintaining pressure on North Korea and urging it to abandon its nuclear development program. President Trump emphasized that he would use all possible means to ensure that North Korea abandons its nuclear weapons and becomes a responsible member of the international community. His remarks demonstrate the United States' continued interest and commitment to the security situation on the Korean Peninsula, while also delivering a strong warning message to North Korea.
