President Donald Trump participated in a comprehensive interview in the Oval Office, offering insights into several key political and economic issues facing the United States. His comments touched on Federal Reserve policy and leadership, ongoing conflict in Ukraine, diplomatic engagements in Venezuela, expectations for the upcoming midterm elections, and potential impacts on Cuba linked to recent U.S. military actions.
Federal Reserve Views and Leadership Considerations
Discussing the Federal Reserve's role and independence, Trump emphasized the importance for a president to have a voice in monetary policy, stating, "A president should have something to say" on the matter. Referencing his own business expertise, he remarked, "I made a lot of money with business, so I think I have a better understanding of it than Too Late Jerome Powell." Regarding the possibility of removing Fed Chair Jerome Powell, Trump indicated no current plans to do so, responding, "I don’t have any plan to do that."
On the opposition from certain Republican senators toward the Justice Department's investigation, Trump expressed indifference, asserting, "I don’t care. There’s nothing to say. They should be loyal. That’s what I say." He also identified his choices for the next Federal Reserve Chair, naming "The two Kevins," White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett and former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh, as strong candidates. He noted there are "some other good people too," and promised to announce a decision within the arriving weeks.
Stance on Ukraine Peace Deal and Russian Conflict
Turning to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Trump spoke on the delicate nature of negotiating a peace settlement. He indicated that securing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's agreement is crucial, saying, "We have to get President Zelenskiy to go along with it." When asked about support for U.S. security guarantees involving intelligence sharing to protect Ukraine, Trump replied, "If we can get something done, we’d help. They’re losing 30,000 soldiers a month between them and Russia. Now, Europe is going to help us with that."
Regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin's willingness to negotiate, Trump stated, "I think he’s ready to make a deal. I think Ukraine is less ready to make a deal." He identified the primary obstacle as President Zelenskiy, stating, "Zelenskiy" when asked about the holdup in negotiations.
Comments on Iranian Opposition and Venezuela Relations
On the topic of Iran, Trump referenced Reza Pahlavi, son of the former Shah of Iran. He acknowledged Pahlavi "seems very nice," but highlighted uncertainties about his potential leadership within Iran, noting the need for further analysis. Trump admitted, "It’s very early - too soon to say," and indicated he had not spoken with Pahlavi. He expressed openness to Pahlavi leading Iran if his country would accept such leadership.
Concerning Venezuela, Trump revealed plans to meet with Opposition leader María Corina Machado, saying, "I think we’re just going to talk" and described her as a "very nice woman." When asked about a rumor that Machado might present him with a Nobel Peace Prize, he denied the request, acknowledging only that Machado has received the award. Additionally, Trump recounted having "a very good talk" with Delcy Rodríguez, the interim president of Venezuela, describing her as cooperative: "She’s been very good to deal with." He anticipates Rodríguez eventually visiting the U.S., and expressed willingness to visit Venezuela in turn.
Midterm Election Outlook and Implications for Cuba
Regarding the midterm elections, Trump expressed cautious optimism about Republican performance, though he noted historical challenges, stating, "only three presidents have won out of 65 years, or whatever the number is. What is that number? The crazy number almost doesn’t make sense, right? Even if they had a successful presidency, yeah, there’s almost like there’s a latch on it."
On the question of Cuba's potential vulnerability following U.S. military actions in Venezuela, Trump anticipated increased instability, commenting, "Probably, yeah, I think so." He elaborated that Cuba's financial and resource support from Venezuela has been cut off, including money, oil, and gold, making the Cuban regime more likely to fall.