Alaska gas pipeline deal hangs on South Korean approval, Trump says no patience

President Donald Trump addressed the media on Oct. 3, emphasizing that the Alaska gas pipeline project cannot wait indefinitely for South Korea’s consent. After a reporter noted that Seoul has not yet approved the plan, Trump’s response grew stern. He warned that failure to sign promptly would cause the price to be “doubled,” though he omitted precise numbers or a deadline.

The proposal involves moving natural gas from Alaska’s North Slope through a pipeline to a southern LNG facility, where it will be liquefied for export. The United States views Asian markets as primary customers, given their dependence on imported fuel. Trump’s message was clear: the United States expects swift action, or it will enforce harsher terms.