BRIDGEWATER, N.J. (AP) — President Donald Trump has pushed back against criticisms regarding his military actions in Iran by insisting that there is no contradiction between his campaign promise of "no new wars" and his current military strategy. In an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press," Trump asserted that he never guaranteed a violence-free presidency, emphasizing the need to maintain a strong military.
During the interview, which was recorded on Friday in Wisconsin, Trump responded to concerns about his military involvement in Iran, stating, "I didn't promise anything." He described the ongoing war as not being an "endless war," referring specifically to the three months of conflict that began on February 28. Trump claimed he was "doing the world a service" by preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, although he acknowledged earlier U.S. strikes had already "obliterated" some of Iran's nuclear facilities.
Trump also addressed his withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, an agreement made by the Obama administration which he has criticized. He acknowledged that negotiating a new agreement would take time, reiterating his previous assertions that his approach is aimed at achieving a "better deal." In tandem with his military commentary, Trump has been vocal about his views on the recent California primary elections, alleging without evidence that widespread voter fraud occurred.
Following the recent California election, Trump has intensified his claims of electoral irregularities, particularly regarding the delayed counting of mail-in ballots that tend to favor Democratic candidates. In response to Trump's allegations, Kristen Welker from NBC pressed him for evidence, to which Trump replied, "All I have to do is look," showing frustration as the interview progressed. Despite his claims, experts have noted that the slow vote-counting process is a common occurrence and not indicative of fraud.
Amid the election discourse, Trump was also questioned about a now-abandoned plan for a $1.776 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" aimed at compensating allies tied to his lawsuits against the IRS regarding the disclosure of his tax returns. After bipartisan concerns emerged regarding its implementation and oversight, the Justice Department announced the cessation of the fund's plans. Trump expressed disappointment over the decision, suggesting that the fund would have been beneficial in a legal settlement.
The NBC interview took place in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, within a barn setting that contributed to several interruptions as heavy rain fell on the rooftop, complicating audio clarity. Trump ended the interview abruptly, raising his voice as he accused the media of being "crooked" and untrustworthy, characterizing their coverage as "fake" and "dirty." After dismissively thanking Welker, Trump left the discussion, stating that he had given ample time to the interview.
Welker later noted live on-air that she had spoken with Trump about the interview conditions and that he had agreed to participate in another interview in the future, indicating potential openness to further discussion despite the tense exchange.
