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Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump addressed his strained relationship with Putin, stating, "I trust almost nobody," when asked if he trusts the Russian leader. He revealed that he believed a deal to end the Ukraine war was close on four occasions, only for Russia to escalate attacks, including intensified drone and missile strikes on Ukrainian cities. Trump recently announced plans to supply weapons to Ukraine and impose severe tariffs on Russia if no ceasefire is reached within 50 days. When pressed on stopping the "bloodshed" in Ukraine, he said, "We're working at it."
Trump also reaffirmed his support for NATO, reversing his previous stance that the alliance was "obsolete." Following a meeting with NATO chief Mark Rutte, he praised the alliance's increased defense spending, noting that member countries are now "paying their own bills" and aiming for 5% of economic output. He emphasized the importance of collective defense, allowing smaller nations to stand up to larger ones, and claimed world leaders, including those from Germany, France, and Spain, respect his leadership.
On domestic issues, Trump highlighted his administration’s success in reducing illegal border crossings to record lows and advancing mass deportation efforts, including to El Salvador. He dismissed legal challenges to his policies, claiming victories in appeals against "radical left" judges. Trump also touted his "big beautiful bill," extending 2017 tax cuts, introducing tax breaks on tips, and cutting Medicaid funding, calling it "the largest tax cuts in history."
Regarding international relations, Trump expressed a "special bond" with the UK, praising Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer despite their political differences and noting a UK-US trade deal. He downplayed Brexit’s success, calling its execution "sloppy" but improving. Ahead of a second state visit to the UK in September, Trump said he looks forward to meeting King Charles III, whom he called a "great gentleman," but declined to address Parliament, suggesting MPs enjoy their break.
Reflecting on his legacy, Trump said, "Saving America" would define his presidency, claiming the country was "dead" a year ago but is now "great" under his leadership. He avoided dwelling on the assassination attempt, saying it "could be life-changing" but he prefers not to think about it.
The interview, conducted by BBC’s Chief North America Correspondent Gary O’Donoghue, is available in full on BBC Sounds.
