WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump told reporters Friday that the Nippon Steel acquisition is not finalized and requires his approval, while also commenting on sanctions legislation against Russia and the prospects of peace in Gaza.
Asked whether the U.S. Steel–Nippon Steel transaction was complete, Trump said, “No, I have to approve the final deal.” He added, “They’ve made a very big commitment. And it’s a very big investment. It’s the largest investment in the history of Pennsylvania in any deal, not just steel.”
On legislation introduced by Sens. Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal that would impose sanctions on Russia, Trump said, “I don’t know. I have to see it. We’ll take a look at it.”
He also addressed his administration’s newly proposed ceasefire plan for Gaza, saying, “I think they want to, they want to get out of that mess. They’re in a big mess. I think they want to get out of it,” referring to Hamas.
Foreign trade and diplomacy
In response to questions about upcoming trade developments, Trump said Japan is interested in reaching a trade agreement, though the Nippon Steel transaction is separate. He emphasized his diplomatic efforts with South Asia.
“The deal I’m most proud of is the fact that we’re dealing with India, we’re dealing with Pakistan and we were able to stop potentially a nuclear war through trade,” Trump said. He confirmed Pakistani officials are expected in Washington next week and that the administration is “very close” to a deal with India.
“I wouldn’t have any interest in making a deal with either if they were going to war with each other,” he added.
Comments on upcoming G7 and cybersecurity
Asked about the upcoming G7 summit, Trump noted it will be held in Canada and referenced Mark Carney, saying, “I think he’s a very nice guy. And we had some good talks. We’ll see what happens.”
He also addressed reports that Susie Wiles’s phone had been breached, saying, “I heard that, yeah,” and added, “Nobody can impersonate Susie. There’s only one Susie.”
Student visas and Harvard criticism
Responding to a question about Chinese students concerned about visa revocations, Trump said, “They’re going to be okay. It’s going to work out fine. We just want to check out the individual students.”
He criticized Harvard, claiming the university has not been cooperative with government vetting efforts. “We want people that can love our country… and for some reason Harvard doesn’t want to give us a list,” Trump said.
