High Stakes: South Korea's Nuclear Ambitions in Bilateral Talks

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung advocated for nuclear-powered submarine fuel and support for nuclear fuel reprocessing during talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. The meeting took place amid the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, highlighting South Korea's strategic nuclear energy aspirations.

In a significant diplomatic push, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed to U.S. President Donald Trump his desire for South Korea to acquire fuel for nuclear-powered submarines. This request is part of South Korea's ongoing ambition to strengthen its defense capabilities.

During the bilateral discussions, President Lee further sought President Trump's backing in efforts to advance South Korea's ability to reprocess spent nuclear fuel or engage in uranium enrichment. These developments come at a pivotal time in regional energy and defense dynamics.

The high-profile meeting occurred against the backdrop of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in South Korea, where leaders from around the globe convened for talks on diverse economic and strategic issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)