Trump denies promising 'no new wars,' says he built up military instead

In a recent interview, U.S. President Donald Trump contested the notion that he campaigned on a promise of "no new wars," asserting that he built a "tremendous military" instead of pledging peace.

“

First of all, I didn't promise no wars. Why would I build the strongest military in the world?

Responding to questions about his foreign policy and past campaign rhetoric, Trump told NBC, "First of all, I didn't promise no wars. Why would I build the strongest military in the world?" He argued that upon taking office, he inherited a poorly equipped military and focused on strengthening it. "I built a tremendous military. When you say I promised, I didn't promise anything," he added.

While acknowledging his dislike for "endless wars," Trump characterized the current tensions with Iran as distinct from such conflicts. He drew parallels to the Vietnam War, which he noted lasted 19 years due to "stupid people." He suggested the situation with Iran would conclude soon, emphasizing the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. "The threat is mostly gone. It will be over soon. But you cannot let Iran have nuclear weapons, or they will blow up," Trump stated, downplaying the current situation as not a war in the classic sense.

“

I built a tremendous military. When you say I promised, I didn't promise anything.

Trump has previously been critical of prolonged U.S. military engagements, particularly those initiated under previous administrations. During his 2024 presidential campaign, he reiterated his commitment to ending "stupid foreign wars" and "stopping wars."

“

The threat is mostly gone. It will be over soon. But you cannot let Iran have nuclear weapons, or they will blow up.