Speaking aboard Air Force One, President Donald Trump stated he could accept a 20-year freeze on Iranian uranium enrichment, provided the deal includes verifiable guarantees and secure international oversight.
Terms for a Nuclear Deal
President Trump confirmed that he rejected the latest proposal from Iran, noting that if the initial terms are unsatisfactory, he discards the entire offer. He indicated that a 20-year moratorium on uranium enrichment is possible, but only if accompanied by genuine, concrete guarantees.
Regarding “nuclear dust”—the stockpiles of enriched uranium buried during previous bombings—Trump reiterated his demand for U.S. control. He claimed that Iran lacks the technology to manage this material, suggesting that only the U.S. or China possess the necessary equipment to remove it.
Military Status and Potential Strikes
The President did not rule out the resumption of military strikes against Iran. He asserted that he initially opposed the ceasefire but agreed to it as a favor to Pakistan. Trump disputed media reports concerning Iran’s remaining missile capabilities, labeling such coverage as treasonous.
According to Trump, the U.S. has successfully dismantled Iran’s navy, air force, anti-aircraft systems, and radar networks. He estimated that approximately 80 to 85 percent of Iran’s missile production and launch capabilities have been destroyed.
Diplomacy with China
Discussing his recent summit, Trump noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping firmly opposed Iran acquiring nuclear weapons and advocated for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to secure oil imports. However, Trump clarified that he did not request pressure from Beijing.
Trump stated that he does not seek favors that require repayment. He expects China to act against Iranian interests of its own volition and announced that he will decide on potential sanctions relief for Chinese firms importing Iranian oil within the coming days.
