Trump Supports Russia’s Opposition to Ukraine NATO Membership, Announces Key Policies

US President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday expressed understanding regarding Russia’s long-standing opposition to Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, highlighting concerns about NATO’s proximity to Russia’s borders.

Speaking at a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump noted that Russia had consistently opposed NATO involvement with Ukraine long before President Vladimir Putin took office. He explained that the situation became more contentious after outgoing President Joe Biden advocated for Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO, leading to heightened tensions. Trump acknowledged Russia’s feelings, stating, “I can understand their feeling about that,” and added that “a lot of mistakes were made in those negotiations.”

Regarding Russian President Putin’s position, Trump reiterated Putin’s belief that Ukraine’s NATO membership would pose a threat to Russia’s security, referencing Putin’s June 2024 comments linking Ukraine’s abandonment of NATO ambitions to a potential ceasefire and peace talks. Trump also clarified that while he was open to meeting Putin, such a meeting would not occur before his inauguration on January 20.

In addition to foreign policy discussions, Trump made a series of announcements concerning domestic issues. He promised to impose serious tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada to combat drug trafficking, citing the record numbers of drugs entering the US through these countries. Trump also reiterated plans to introduce 25% tariffs on goods from both nations following unresolved immigration and drug-related issues.

Further emphasizing US national interests, Trump discussed the importance of Greenland for security purposes, suggesting that Denmark should relinquish control if it doesn’t have legal claims. He also made bold declarations, including his intention to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and reclaim the Panama Canal, stressing its importance for trade and military mobility.