Trump Slams Ex-Intel Chief Kent’s Resignation, Calls Iran ‘Huge Threat’

Trump Criticizes Former Director Kent After Resignation

Former President Donald Trump has spoken out following the resignation of Director of National Intelligence Joe Kent. Kent cited his inability to support Trump’s stance on Iran as the reason for his departure. In response, Trump stated he always found Kent to be “weak on security,” despite initially viewing him as a “nice guy.” He believes Kent’s resignation is a positive development given Kent’s assessment that Iran posed no threat.

Trump’s Strong Stance on Iran

Trump strongly disagrees with any notion that Iran is not a threat. He asserted that “every country realized what a threat Iran was,” adding that many military experts have long argued for action against Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. Trump highlighted his administration’s termination of the Iran nuclear deal, which he called “one of the worst deals ever made by Barack Hussein Obama.” He recalled a significant cash payment made to Iran under the previous administration, describing it as hundreds of millions of dollars sent on planes, which he believes was akin to ransom.

“Hundreds of millions of dollars in a Boeing 757. I think that two of them loaded, they took the seats out and they put cash. And it was so much that there wasn’t a bank in Virginia, Maryland or D.C. that had any money left.”

Trump emphasized that such payments would not occur under his leadership. He reiterated that Iran has been a long-standing threat and that his actions prevented a nuclear war four years ago. He also mentioned a military strike on an Iranian site, stating that without it, a nuclear war would have happened again.

Skepticism Towards Allies on Security Threats

The former president expressed disappointment with individuals or nations that downplay Iran’s threat. He stated, “When somebody is working with us that says they didn’t think Iran was a threat, we don’t want those people.” He believes that those who don’t see Iran as a major threat are either “not smart people” or “not savvy people.” Trump noted that most NATO nations recognize Iran as a significant threat. However, he finds it “very foolish” when allies acknowledge the threat but refuse to offer assistance.

Concerns Over Foreign Aid and NATO

Trump also voiced concerns about foreign aid, particularly regarding the situation in Ukraine. He suggested that the United States has spent “trillions of dollars on NATO” over the years, contributing to national deficits. He contrasted this with the aid provided to Ukraine, stating that while the U.S. doesn’t spend money directly on the conflict, Biden provided Ukraine with “between $350 and $400 billion of equipment and cash.” He questioned the logic of providing such extensive support when allies do not reciprocate or assist the U.S. in return.

Regarding NATO, Trump expressed disappointment, stating, “I’m not exactly thrilled when we help them with Ukraine.” He believes Ukraine would have resolved its conflict much faster without external aid, which he claims consisted of the “best equipment in the world” given by the Biden administration at no cost. He also hinted at the possibility of re-evaluating the U.S. relationship with NATO, noting that he could make such decisions without Congressional approval, though he currently has “nothing in mind” regarding specific actions.

China Relations and Future Meetings

Shifting to foreign policy, Trump addressed his relationship with China. He announced that a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping is being rescheduled and is expected to take place in about five weeks. He described their relationship as a “good relationship” and noted that China has become “economically very good” for the U.S. in recent times. He anticipates a productive meeting with President Xi.

Iran as a Military Operation

When asked if Iran was a bigger foreign policy priority than China, Trump characterized Iran as primarily a “military operation.” He suggested that if a military action were taken, Iran’s defenses, including radar and anti-aircraft systems, would be quickly neutralized. He indicated that such an operation could be concluded swiftly, potentially within days, due to the rapid incapacitation of their military capabilities. He also mentioned that rebuilding would take a decade, but the U.S. would not be involved in that process long-term.

Focus on Cuba and Venezuela

Trump also touched upon Cuba, stating that the U.S. would be “doing something with Cuba very soon.” He and his team are focusing intently on the situation there. Secretary Rubio, present during the discussion, described Cuba’s economy as non-functional and its political system as unable to fix it. He noted that Cuba has historically relied on subsidies, first from the Soviet Union and then from Venezuela, and without these, they are in significant trouble. Rubio suggested that new leadership is needed on the island.

The relationship with Venezuela was also mentioned positively, with Trump calling it “incredible” and “really good for Venezuela and it’s been good for us.” He congratulated the Venezuelan baseball team on a significant win.

Disappointment with UK Politics

Trump expressed disappointment with UK Labour leader Keir Starmer. He stated that while he went out of his way to help with a deal that the Biden administration couldn’t finalize, he felt it wasn’t appreciated. He was particularly disappointed that Starmer was willing to send aircraft carriers after a conflict was won, rather than before. Trump contrasted Starmer unfavorably with Winston Churchill, mentioning that Barack Obama had initially not wanted a bust of Churchill in the Oval Office, a piece Trump proudly displays.

Looking Ahead

The former president’s remarks reveal a consistent focus on national security, a critical view of past foreign policy decisions, and a willingness to challenge established alliances and agreements. His upcoming meeting with President Xi and continued attention to Cuba suggest ongoing diplomatic efforts. The strong stance on Iran and critiques of international aid policies will likely remain central themes in his political discourse.

Source: Trump addresses Kent resignation: 'I always thought he was weak on security' (YouTube)