China Reacts to Trump Review of Nuclear Submarine Deal

China reiterated its opposition to the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal after the Trump Administration said it is reviewing the defense agreement to ensure it fits with its “America First” agenda.

AUKUS is a partnership between the U.S., U.K., and Australia centered on developing nuclear-powered attack submarines that will expand patrols of the Pacific by Western allies.

The deal, agreed in 2021, is worth $240 billion and is now under scrutiny by the Pentagon, led by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

“China has made clear more than once its position on the so-called trilateral security partnership between the U.S., U.K., and Australia, designed to advance cooperation on nuclear submarines and other cutting-edge military technologies,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a briefing on Thursday.

“We oppose manufacturing bloc confrontations and anything that amplifies the risk of nuclear proliferation and exacerbates the arms race.”

This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.