Trump Discusses Economy and Foreign Relations in Exclusive Interview

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In an exclusive interview with Fox News’ Maria Bartiromo that aired March 9, President Donald Trump addressed various pressing issues including the U.S. economy, potential recession fears, and foreign relations amidst rising tensions with Ukraine.

Trump’s comments come as experts indicate that recession concerns are mounting. A report from consumer confidence surveys shows a significant drop this month, the steepest since August 2021. Additionally, the Atlanta Federal Reserve model suggests a potential recession in Q1 2025.

During the interview, Trump acknowledged the possibility of economic hardship but emphasized a transition period necessary for recovery. “I hate to predict things like that,” Trump said about a possible recession. “There is a significant transition, because what we’re doing is very big. We’re bringing wealth back to America.”

Bartiromo pressed Trump on the topic of tariffs, highlighting businesses’ desire for clarity amid his proposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico. “The tariffs could go up as time goes by,” Trump warned, asserting that past trade agreements have harmed the U.S. economy. “This country has been ripped off from every nation in the world,” he added, focusing on the necessity for increased domestic production.

When asked about his relationship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump remarked that he found Zelenskyy to be a “smart and tough guy” but criticized him for allegedly taking advantages of U.S. aid under President Biden. “He took money out of this country under Biden like taking candy from a baby,” Trump said, questioning Zelenskyy’s gratitude.

Addressing the conflict in Ukraine further, Trump asserted that, if he had been in office during the Russian invasion, the attack would not have occurred. He also discussed a pending U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, expressing optimism that it would proceed.

Amid the interview, Trump also touched on spending cuts under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, indicating military spending would remain unchanged for now. “You have China, you have Russia, you have a lot of problems out there,” Trump stated regarding defense expenses.

In a significant policy proposal, Trump advocated introducing a $5 million “gold card” for foreign-born graduates of U.S. educational institutions to facilitate their pathway to permanent residence. He argued that businesses are eager to hire top talent but face obstacles when skilled workers must leave the country post-graduation.

On education, Trump criticized the federal Education Department for failing to deliver quality education, highlighting the high costs relative to poor outcomes. “We literally have the worst education system and yet we’re number one in spending,” he claimed.

As for Musk, Trump defended the tech mogul amidst scrutiny, calling him a “patriot” for his efforts to identify and eliminate government waste. “What he’s done is unbelievable,” Trump remarked, despite tensions reported between Musk and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Turning to international matters, Trump discussed Iran’s nuclear program, advocating for a diplomatic resolution to avoid military conflict. “If we have to go in militarily, it’s going to be a terrible thing for them,” he stated.

Overall, the interview highlighted Trump’s focus on economic recovery through domestic production, amidst complicated relationships with global leaders and evolving trade policies.