ForeignPolicy – Trump Avoids Detailing Plans on Taiwan and Iran
ForeignPolicy – President Donald Trump declined to provide specifics about potential US military action involving Taiwan or Iran during remarks to reporters aboard Air Force One on Thursday. Traveling to Georgia, he emphasized that discussing operational plans in public would be inappropriate, particularly when it comes to matters of war.
Refusal to Outline Taiwan Strategy
When asked about Taiwan, Trump criticized a political opponent’s response to a similar question, arguing that publicly debating military strategy could have serious consequences. He suggested that such remarks might be used repeatedly in future political campaigns and described them as potentially harmful.
“You don’t talk about military strategy,” Trump said, underscoring his view that national security planning should remain confidential. He added that when questions relate directly to warfare, leaders should exercise restraint rather than offer detailed explanations.
Tensions surrounding Taiwan have remained a sensitive issue in US foreign policy, with Washington maintaining a longstanding but carefully calibrated position toward the island and its relationship with China. Trump, however, avoided commenting on how his administration would respond in a specific conflict scenario.
Narrow Window for Iran Diplomacy
Turning to Iran, Trump signaled that negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program could face a limited timeframe. While he indicated that diplomacy was still possible, he did not elaborate on the terms under discussion or potential military considerations.
“We’re either going to get a deal, or it’s going to be unfortunate for them,” Trump said, suggesting that talks were approaching a decisive phase.
Pressed by reporters on whether a deadline had been set, he estimated that ten to fifteen days would likely represent the maximum period for progress. Still, he declined to clarify what actions might follow if an agreement were not reached.
When asked whether any potential US military action would aim specifically at dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Trump again refrained from discussing details, repeating that he would not address strategic plans publicly.
Comments on Britain’s Royal Family
Beyond foreign policy, Trump also weighed in on developments involving Britain’s monarchy. Referring to renewed scrutiny surrounding Prince Andrew’s past association with convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein, Trump described the situation as damaging for the royal institution.
“I think it’s a shame,” he said, calling the controversy “very sad” for the royal family. At the same time, he offered praise for King Charles, describing him as a “fantastic man.”
The comments come amid continued public discussion in the United Kingdom about the long-term impact of past scandals on the monarchy’s public standing.
Legal Matters and Political Claims
Trump also referenced his own legal history during the exchange with reporters. He stated that he had been fully cleared of wrongdoing in previous investigations and reiterated that he had done nothing improper.
Addressing past connections to Jeffrey Epstein, Trump claimed that Epstein had opposed him politically and suggested that recently disclosed documents supported his position. He did not provide further detail regarding the documents mentioned.
Proposal for an International “Board of Peace”
The former president discussed his proposal for what he described as a “Board of Peace,” an international initiative intended to bring together countries from different political perspectives. According to Trump, several nations have expressed interest, while others are still completing internal approval processes.
He said invitations had been extended to both China and Russia and indicated that broad participation would be necessary for the initiative to function effectively.
Response to Obama Remarks
In response to questions about comments reportedly made by former President Barack Obama concerning extraterrestrial life, Trump suggested that certain information might have been classified. However, he offered no evidence to support that claim and declined to elaborate further. He added that he personally does not discuss the subject.
The remarks come at a time when Trump is navigating multiple international challenges, including heightened scrutiny over Taiwan and ongoing negotiations related to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.