Trump Expresses Disappointment in Putin, Discusses NATO and Domestic Agenda in Exclusive BBC Interview
A Candid Conversation: Trust and Disappointment
In an exclusive phone call with the BBC, former US President Donald Trump expressed his disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, “I trust almost no one.” This remark came shortly after Trump announced plans to send weapons to Ukraine and warned of severe tariffs on Russia if a ceasefire deal is not reached within 50 days.
During the 20-minute interview from the Oval Office, Trump reflected on his complex relationship with Putin, revealing that he had hoped for a resolution to the Ukraine conflict on four separate occasions. When asked if he was done with the Russian leader, Trump replied, “I’m disappointed in him, but I’m not done with him.”
NATO: A Shift in Perspective
The former president also discussed his evolving views on NATO, an organization he once labeled as “obsolete.” Trump now endorses NATO's common defense principle and praised the alliance for ramping up defense spending to 5% of their economic output. “Nobody thought that was possible,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of collective defense for smaller nations.
Reflections on Survival and Leadership
When asked about the assassination attempt he survived at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Trump stated he preferred not to dwell on how it might have changed him, suggesting that such thoughts could be “life-changing.”
The Situation in Ukraine
As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, with Russia ramping up drone and missile attacks, Trump acknowledged the challenges in negotiating peace. He noted, “We’ll have a great conversation. I’ll say: ‘That’s good, I’ll think we’re close to getting it done,’ and then he’ll knock down a building in Kyiv.”
Thoughts on the UK and Brexit
Shifting focus to the UK, Trump expressed his fondness for the country, stating, “I think it’s a great place - you know I own property there.” He criticized the handling of Brexit, saying, “I think it’s been on the sloppy side but I think it’s getting straightened out.” He also praised UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, despite labeling him a liberal, and expressed excitement for his upcoming state visit to the UK in September.
Domestic Agenda: Immigration and Economy
On the domestic front, Trump touted his administration's success in reducing illegal crossings at the US-Mexico border to record lows. He emphasized his commitment to deporting criminals swiftly, stating, “I want to get the criminals out quickly, and we’re doing that.”
He also highlighted his landmark tax and spending bill, which he described as “the one big beautiful bill,” extending tax cuts from his first term and introducing new tax breaks. “We have the largest tax cuts in history,” he claimed.
Defining His Legacy
When asked what he believes will define his legacy as president, Trump confidently stated, “Saving America.” He concluded, “I think America is now a great country and it was a dead country one year ago.”
As Trump continues to navigate the complexities of international relations and domestic policies, his candid reflections provide insight into his perspectives on leadership, trust, and the future of America.