Trump stated he is considering a diesel export ban on a daily basis, while cautioning that such a move could have a negative impact on gasoline.

Key policy remarks from Trump

On long-term Treasury auctions, Trump expressed confidence in Treasury Secretary Bessent, saying Bessent "has good instincts." The remarks signal alignment between Trump and Bessent on the management of long-term government debt issuance.

Diesel export ban and energy market implications

Trump confirmed he reviews the possibility of a diesel export ban daily. He acknowledged the measure carries a trade-off, noting it could have a negative impact on gasoline markets if enacted. No timeline or formal decision was indicated in the remarks.

Strait of Hormuz claim

Trump also asserted that the U.S. has "total control of the Strait of Hormuz," a strategically significant waterway for global energy shipments. The statement was made alongside the energy and fiscal policy comments without further elaboration on the basis for the claim.

President Donald Trump defended his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un while arguing that previous U.S. administrations failed to prevent Pyongyang from developing its nuclear capabilities. Speaking after meeting with AI leaders at the White House on Tuesday, Trump attributed North Korea's nuclear status to past leadership rather than current policy.

Trump defends personal ties with Kim

When asked why Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons while North Korea has already developed a significant arsenal, Trump stated, "You know why? Because you had a different president. And they could have stopped him." He described Kim as "a friend of mine," adding, "I’m about the only person in the entire world that he likes, and I like him."

Trump acknowledged that North Korea possesses a "pretty large" nuclear capability, though he noted it is not comparable to the U.S. arsenal. He emphasized the stability of this relationship, stating, "As long as I’m around, he’s going to be fine," because "he respects me and he likes me."

Strategic shifts in regional policy

The President’s comments follow recent diplomatic and military adjustments regarding the Korean Peninsula. Last month, Trump revealed that Kim responded to his outreach for talks, though specific details were not disclosed. He further defended the relationship by noting that Kim had treated him with "great respect" and that they understood each other.

In a move reflecting this diplomatic stance, Trump ordered the Pentagon to substantially reduce joint U.S.-South Korea military exercises. The decision cited three factors:

• The cost of the exercises
• His personal relationship with Kim
• South Korea’s refusal to join U.S. efforts involving Iran

Despite the order, the Ulchi Freedom Shield drills continued as scheduled, with approximately 18,000 South Korean troops participating.

Iran negotiations remain conditional

While maintaining a friendly posture toward Pyongyang, Trump kept diplomatic channels open with Tehran. On Monday, he indicated openness to easing sanctions on Iran and releasing frozen Iranian funds in exchange for "concrete progress" on its nuclear program.

Current U.S.-Iran talks have been described as "positive and constructive," yet significant divisions remain. Both sides are at an impasse over the sequencing of concessions: whether sanctions relief or nuclear curbs should be implemented first.