Washington, Feb. 25 (SANA) President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address to defend an assertive and often controversial foreign policy centered on Iran, Gaza, Ukraine and global trade, arguing that his approach strengthens America while advancing his “America First” strategy.
According to an Associated Press report, although much of the speech focused on domestic issues, Trump devoted significant attention to rising tensions in the Middle East, stalled peace efforts in Ukraine and ongoing tariff disputes with major trading partners.
Iran and Regional Escalation
The president returned repeatedly to Iran, signaling that military confrontation remains possible even as negotiations continue.
Eight months after claiming U.S. strikes had “obliterated” three critical Iranian nuclear facilities, Trump warned that Tehran is once again pursuing nuclear capabilities.
“We wiped it out and they want to start all over again,” Trump said. “We are in negotiations. They want to make a deal — but we haven’t heard those secret words: We will never have a nuclear weapon.”
Iran insists it does not seek nuclear arms. However, negotiations remain complicated. Tehran maintains that talks should focus strictly on its nuclear program, while the United States and Israel seek broader discussions, including Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional armed groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas in Gaza and the Houthis.
Recent polling suggests public skepticism about the administration’s foreign policy. Surveys show that majorities of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of international affairs and believe he has gone too far in using U.S. military force abroad.
Gaza Ceasefire and Hostages
Trump pointed to a fragile ceasefire agreement in Gaza as one of his major diplomatic achievements. He praised his administration’s role in brokering a pause in the fighting and securing the return of hostages taken by Hamas.
Despite the breakthrough, the ceasefire remains delicate, with broader questions about Gaza’s governance and long-term stability unresolved.
Ukraine War and Peace Efforts
Tuesday marked four years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. During his campaign, Trump pledged to end the war in one day, but more than a year into his second term, that promise remains unfulfilled.
In his 108-minute address, Trump briefly addressed the conflict while emphasizing its human toll.
“The killing and slaughter between Russia and Ukraine — 25,000 soldiers dying each month,” he said, adding that his administration is working toward a negotiated settlement.
U.S.-mediated talks continue, but significant obstacles remain. Russia is demanding territorial concessions from Kyiv, and disputes persist over control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest.
Trade Battles and Tariff Strategy
Trade policy was another central theme. Following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down his use of a 1977 emergency law to impose sweeping tariffs, Trump defended his economic strategy while criticizing the decision.
He warned that countries attempting to “play games” with existing tariff agreements could face even harsher trade penalties.
Despite the legal setback, Trump insisted that most nations prefer to preserve current deals rather than risk stricter terms. His tariff policies have targeted both rivals and allies, reinforcing his broader push for economic nationalism.
Thirteen months into his second term, Trump’s foreign policy is defined by high-stakes negotiations with Iran, fragile diplomacy in Gaza and Ukraine, and an ongoing reshaping of global trade relationships — all unfolding amid growing domestic scrutiny.
M.S
