U.S. President Donald Trump said in an interview with Fox News on Friday (May 16) that a new nuclear deal with Iran is “close,” and expressed confidence about holding direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Reuters reports.
“They’re not going to have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said. Asked whether the deal would allow Iran to enrich uranium at civilian levels, he replied, “No, I think they want to make a deal.”
Trump also said he plans to meet with Putin soon. “I have a very good relationship with Putin. I think we’ll make a deal,” he told Fox News journalist Bret Baier. “I’m tired of having other people go and meet.” When asked whether his approach to Putin was shifting, Trump responded, “It’s not changing... I will use leverage if I have to. I’d rather not use that. That’s a big deal.” He added, “Nobody uses the leverage better than me. Look what I did to Iran.”
On foreign trade, Trump claimed that India is prepared to eliminate tariffs on U.S. goods. “They’re willing to cut 100% of their tariffs,” he said, calling a trade deal with New Delhi imminent.
He also discussed a gift from Qatar, saying the country’s leadership had offered a plane to assist with the U.S. presidential aircraft. “This plane’s not for me,” Trump said. “This goes to the United States Air Force for whoever is president.”
Trump returned to the White House on Friday night (May 16) following a four-day visit to the Middle East.
The regional tour, which included stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, resulted in substantial financial commitments to the United States from all three Gulf nations.
This was Trump’s second foreign trip since returning to the presidency—his first was to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis—and it came amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
While regional security challenges such as the war in Gaza and concerns over Iran’s nuclear program dominated headlines, Trump’s visit largely centered on economic partnerships and trade agreements.
