Washington: A senior U.S. diplomat announced that the U.S. government is engaged in a "pretty extensive process" concerning a bilateral agreement with South Korea regarding the Asian ally's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Thomas DiNanno shared this information during a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing. He was commenting on the submarine project mentioned in a joint fact sheet issued by Seoul and Washington in November, which outlines their agreements on security, trade, and other issues.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the fact sheet confirms the U.S.'s approval for South Korea to construct nuclear-powered attack submarines. It also notes that Washington will actively collaborate with South Korea to fulfill the requirements of the shipbuilding project, including exploring "avenues to source fuel." DiNanno stated that the interagency process is very active in building teams and determining deliverables for the project. The Pentagon is focusing on the infrastructure aspect, while the State Department is addressing potential nuclear fuel provision issues.
The official reiterated the U.S.'s "extended deterrence" commitment to South Korea, emphasizing the clarity of this commitment. DiNanno referred to President Donald Trump's statements on the Korean peninsula, underscoring the U.S.'s promise to use its full range of military capabilities, including nuclear weapons, to defend South Korea.