President Donald Trump has declared that he does not need international law and that his power as US president is limited only by his own morality. In an interview with the New York Times, Trump stated, 'It's the only thing that can stop me,' adding, 'I'm not looking to hurt people.' He conceded that his administration should adhere to international law but said, 'It depends on what your definition of international law is.'
Trump emphasised the importance of ownership in the context of his administration's interest in Greenland, saying, 'Ownership is very important. Because that's what I feel is psychologically needed for success. I think that ownership gives you a thing that you can't do with, you're talking about a lease or a treaty.'
Regarding Venezuela, Trump justified US actions by repeating claims that Nicolás Maduro sent gang members into the US. He dismissed concerns that his approach could set a precedent for China's actions toward Taiwan or Russia's in Ukraine, arguing that criminals were not 'pouring into China' or 'pouring into Russia'.
On Taiwan, Trump said he does not believe Chinese President Xi Jinping will seize control, stating, 'I've expressed to him that I would be very unhappy if he did that and I don't think he'll do it.' He added that Xi might act after Trump leaves office but not while he is president.
Trump also appeared unconcerned about the expiry of the last US-Russia arms control treaty next month, saying, 'If it expires, it expires. We'll just do a better agreement.' He suggested including China and other parties in future deals.
The interview comes amid domestic tensions following a fatal shooting by ICE agents in Minneapolis and strained relations with European allies over Greenland.
