Trump claims a more powerful second term and lays out bold foreign policy in Axios interview

In a sprawling Axios Show transcript, Trump argues his second term is more powerful than his first, citing a stronger economy and rebuilt military, while praising Xi and Modi as capable leaders. He paints a confrontational view of Iran—bragging about killing Soleimani and targeting Iran’s leadership—calling the JCPOA a disaster and saying Iran won’t obtain a nuclear weapon thanks to his actions. He also discusses Ukraine aid (citing Javelins), Cuba and Venezuela as future targets, and weighs AI policy, warning of misuse but asserting U.S. leadership and potential use of the Defense Production Act. Throughout, he casts himself as the indispensable, decisive leader and hints at ongoing, high-stakes geopolitical brinkmanship ahead of his presidency, including upgrades to the White House and electoral prospects.