WASHINGTON: Donald Trump said he had a “great call” with South Korea’s acting president on Monday.
He shared details of the conversation on his Truth Social platform after their discussion.
Topics included trade, military payments, shipbuilding, and joint energy projects between both countries.
Trump highlighted South Korea’s “unsustainable surplus” and discussions around LNG and pipeline ventures.
He also mentioned military protection the US provides, which was part of a previous agreement.
Military Payments
Trump recalled that South Korea began military payments during his previous White House term.
He claimed the arrangement involved “billions of dollars” toward shared military defense costs.
Trump blamed President Biden for ending the deal for reasons that he says remain unclear.
According to Trump, Biden’s cancellation “shocked everyone,” suggesting it weakened US-South Korea cooperation.
Despite this, Trump said the current talks could lead to a new favorable agreement soon.
Deal Progress
He wrote there are now “confines and probability” for a strong new deal between both nations.
Trump confirmed South Korea’s negotiation team is flying to the United States for further discussions.
He seemed confident about reaching a positive outcome that benefits both sides economically and strategically.
Trump emphasized broader topics were being negotiated beyond trade and tariffs during these international talks.
He described this negotiation method as “One Stop Shopping,” calling it efficient and beneficial.
LNG and Pipeline
Trump praised South Korea’s agreement to buy American liquefied natural gas (LNG) in large volumes.
He noted the two nations are working on a joint venture involving a pipeline through Alaska.
Such energy cooperation, Trump argued, supports American industries while improving international energy ties.
The Alaska pipeline project was briefly highlighted as a point of shared economic interest.
It reflects Trump’s strategy to promote US energy exports while reducing foreign trade imbalances.
Global Ambitions
Trump said other countries are also eager to make deals with the United States.
He did not name them but hinted at many ongoing discussions with foreign governments.
Like with South Korea, he wants to address military, economic, and energy issues in talks.
This comprehensive approach, he argued, ensures more efficient and wide-ranging outcomes from negotiations.
He emphasized that multiple deals are progressing simultaneously with various global partners.
Focus on China
Trump stated China is eager to strike a deal but unsure how to start the process.
He claimed the US is “waiting for their call” to begin talks once China is ready.
According to Trump, China’s uncertainty is delaying progress despite their urgent desire to reach an agreement.
He portrayed the US as prepared and patient, ready to respond when China initiates dialogue.
Trump’s message implied leverage, suggesting China must act first to open formal negotiations.
Criticism of Biden
Trump repeated criticism of President Biden’s trade and military policies, especially involving South Korea.
He accused Biden of abandoning previous agreements without explanation, creating setbacks in defense cooperation.
According to Trump, his administration built deals that Biden later reversed, weakening strategic alliances.
He also implied Biden lacks a coherent strategy for securing better trade terms with allies.
Trump positioned himself as more effective at managing international relations and achieving strong national outcomes.
Patriotic Tone
Trump ended his post with a patriotic message, writing “God Bless the USA” in all caps.
This reflected his usual style of mixing policy updates with emotional national pride appeals.
He used the post to promote his negotiation tactics and frame himself as a global leader.
Supporters saw the message as a return to Trump’s focus on tough bargaining and deal-making.
The post served both as an update and campaign-style statement ahead of possible 2024 involvement.
