WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump denied in an NBC interview that he had pledged during his 2024 campaign not to involve the United States in new wars, a central theme of his “America First” foreign policy messaging.
Trump made the comments in a lengthy interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” host Kristen Welker that aired on Sunday. The interview was taped on Friday in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.
“I didn’t guarantee no war,” Trump said. “Why would I have built the strongest military in the world? ... When you say I promised, I didn’t promise anything.”
The remarks come amid ongoing U.S. involvement in hostilities with Iran, which began in late February. Trump described the conflict as not an “endless war” and said it has lasted about three months.
During his 2024 campaign, Trump frequently criticized previous administrations for engaging in what he called “endless wars” and positioned himself as someone who would avoid new foreign conflicts. He has said he started no new wars during his first term.
In the interview, Trump reiterated that he does not like endless wars but defended the current actions against Iran as necessary. He stated the U.S. was “doing the world a service” by addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program.
The interview also touched on other topics, including a now-scrapped plan for a compensation fund and claims about election processes in California, but Trump ended the session abruptly after growing frustrated with questions from Welker.
Critics, including some Democrats, have pointed to the Iran conflict as inconsistent with Trump’s earlier campaign rhetoric. Supporters argue his approach emphasizes strength through military readiness to deter adversaries.
The White House has not issued additional statements on the interview as of Monday. Officials have previously described U.S. actions in the region as limited and aimed at preventing broader escalation.
Trump’s comments have drawn attention as the administration continues diplomatic efforts related to the Iran situation. Details on the status of any potential negotiations remain unclear.
The full interview highlighted ongoing debates over U.S. foreign policy priorities under Trump’s second term. No immediate policy changes were announced following the broadcast.
