Trump Challenges Putin and China, Proposes Canada Join U.S. Defense System

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump issued strong warnings to Russia and China this week during his 19th week in office, addressing tensions in trade and defense.

On Tuesday, Trump used Truth Social to comment on Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, “What doesn’t [Putin] realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD. He’s playing with fire!”

In response, Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president and current deputy chairman of the Security Council, cautioned Trump. He remarked, “I only know of one REALLY BAD thing — WWIII. I hope Trump understands this!”

Trump’s comments come as Russia has intensified its military actions, while the U.S. attempts to distance itself from escalating conflicts. On Wednesday, he urged Putin to engage promptly in peace negotiations or face a firmer U.S. response. “We’re going to find out whether or not he’s tapping us along or not,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.

Turning to trade, Trump accused China of breaching a preliminary agreement established earlier this year. He alleged China has not adhered to commitments to reduce tariffs, stating, “The bad news is that China, perhaps not surprisingly to some, HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US.”

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer corroborated Trump’s claims, explaining that China has failed to eliminate its non-tariff barriers as required by the deal. “The United States did exactly what it was supposed to do,” Greer said.

In further developments, Trump proposed that Canada could benefit from the ‘Golden Dome’ missile defense system, if it meets certain conditions. He stated, “I told Canada… that it will cost $61 billion to remain a separate, but unequal, Nation, but will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State.” Trump has previously expressed interest in making Canada the 51st state, alongside plans for Greenland and the Panama Canal.

As these international relations continue to evolve, Trump’s remarks reflect ongoing tensions and his administration’s strategic posture on foreign policy.