Interview Key Points

Here are the key topics and points discussed in the interview:

Ukraine-Russia War

Discussion centered on President Trump's perceived influence on the conflict and his proposed peace deal.

Russia's Negotiating Position: Trump believes Russia is in a stronger negotiating position due to its larger size and stated that the war would not have happened if he were president.
Zelensky's Role: Trump indicated that Ukrainian President Zelensky had not yet read the most recent draft of the peace proposal, suggesting his delay was holding up progress.
Ukrainian Elections: Trump suggested it was time for Ukraine to hold an election, implying that a prolonged war might be used as an excuse to avoid democratic processes.
Territorial Losses: Trump asserted that Ukraine had already lost significant territory, including a large strip of coastline, before his potential involvement.
European Support: He criticized Europe's handling of the war, stating they talk too much but don't produce results, and that the war is "Joe Biden's war," not his.
Personal Involvement: Trump stated his primary motivation for caring about the war is to prevent the loss of young lives.

The interview explored President Trump's impact on Europe and his critique of the continent's current trajectory.

"Cultivating Resistance": Trump discussed the national security strategy's aim to "cultivate resistance to Europe's current trajectory within European nations," emphasizing that Europe needs to change its course to remain viable.
Immigration as a Crisis: He strongly criticized Europe's immigration policies, calling them a "disaster" and a key reason for the continent's perceived decay, citing examples of Paris and London.
"America First" vs. European Strength: Trump clarified that his focus is on America's strength ("America First") but believes a strong Europe is desirable, though he feels Europe is currently failing to achieve it.
Endorsement of European Leaders: He confirmed he would endorse candidates he favors, referencing his endorsements of Viktor Orbán and Javier Milei, and reiterated that he does not want to "run Europe."
Financial Assistance to Hungary: Trump denied promising a financial shield to Hungary's Viktor Orbán but acknowledged Orbán asked for it, while praising Orbán's stance on immigration.

The discussion shifted to President Trump's views on the situation in Venezuela and potential US actions.

Maduro's Days Numbered: Trump reiterated his belief that Nicolás Maduro's time in power is limited.
Military Action Ambiguity: He refused to rule in or out potential US military action, including ground invasions, citing security strategy concerns and the publication's perceived unfriendliness.
Criticism of Biden's Handling: Trump blamed President Biden for allowing millions of people, including criminals and those from mental institutions, to enter the US from Venezuela.
Venezuelan People: He expressed support for the Venezuelan people, highlighting their positive contributions and strong support for him, particularly in the Doral area.
Focus on Contributions: Trump emphasized a desire for immigrants who contribute to the US, contrasting this with individuals he deems problematic.

The conversation touched upon the drug crisis, border control, and specific incidents.

Fentanyl and Venezuela: Despite DEA reports, Trump maintained that Venezuela is a significant source of drugs coming to the US via boats.
Prisoner Emigration: He claimed Venezuela has emptied its prisons, sending "seriously tough" individuals, including murderers, into the US.
Boat Strikes: Trump stated he did not get involved in the specifics of boat strikes but noted they save American lives by preventing drugs from reaching the US.
Pardoning Juan Orlando Hernandez: He defended his decision to pardon the former Honduran president, citing claims that Hernandez was "set up" and treated "horribly."
Weaponization of Government: Trump alluded to the "weaponization" of the government against him and suggested a similar process might have led to Hernandez's conviction.

President Trump assessed the state of the US economy and addressed concerns about affordability.

Overall Grade: He gave his economy an "A plus," despite acknowledging concerns from a supporter about rising costs.
Inherited Mess: Trump claimed he inherited a "total mess" and has since brought prices down, particularly energy costs.
Tariffs and Investment: He attributed significant investment ($18 trillion) to his policies, including tariffs, and stated car companies are returning to the US.
Interest Rates: Trump believes interest rates are too high and indicated a preference for a Fed chair who would lower them.
Affordability and Healthcare: He criticized Democrats for high prices and advocated for directing healthcare funds directly to people rather than insurance companies.
Obamacare Subsidies: Trump suggested letting Obamacare subsidies expire unless a better healthcare deal could be reached, emphasizing direct payment to individuals.

Key points regarding immigration policy and its legal implications were discussed.

Pope's Criticism: Trump dismissed the Pope's criticism of his immigration actions, stating he hadn't seen the comments and emphasizing the success of the border wall.
Border Control: He highlighted the current administration's success in drastically reducing illegal border crossings, contrasting it with the previous administration's perceived failures.
Birthright Citizenship: Trump expressed interest in the Supreme Court case on birthright citizenship, suggesting it was originally intended for the babies of slaves and not for children of immigrants. He believes ending birthright citizenship is necessary to prevent the US from having to house "tens of millions of people."

The interview touched on the Supreme Court and the potential future of the Republican Party.

Supreme Court Justices: Trump expressed hope that conservative justices like Thomas and Alito would remain on the court, contrasting this with Democrats' alleged desire to "pack the court."
Republican Party Bench: He believes the Republican Party has a strong bench of potential leaders but stated that one never truly knows who can succeed until they are "tested."