On November 11, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States has reached historic trade agreements with countries including Japan, South Korea, and India to dramatically increase coal exports. This marked the first time Trump specifically highlighted coal export achievements in relation to trade agreements with South Korea. During an event at the White House celebrating coal, he emphasized that the U.S. is now exporting coal globally and previously mentioned a deal for South Korea to purchase $100 billion worth of liquefied natural gas and other energy products in talks last year.

In his speech, Trump devoted a significant portion to praising fossil fuels and criticizing renewable energy. He referenced the recent winter storm that impacted the U.S., indicating that coal usage surged by 31% while wind and solar energy failed. Trump asserted that coal is the only reliable and dependable energy source, harshly critiquing wind energy by referring to wind turbines as 'eyesores' made in China but not used there, labeling them as money-losing machines. Furthermore, he signed an executive order directing the Department of Defense to enter into new power purchase agreements for coal-generated electricity.

The implications of Trump's assertions and actions reflect his administration's continued support for fossil fuels amidst an ongoing global conversation on renewable energy and climate change. By emphasizing coal and participating in agreements that prioritize fossil fuel exports, Trump's narrative could shape future U.S.-Korea relations in energy procurement. This approach may resonate with his base, which views coal as a traditional energy source vital to job preservation in certain sectors, positioning coal exports as a significant aspect of U.S. economic strategy in energy markets.