Former US President Donald Trump praised Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, calling them strong and intelligent. He said both men were serious figures who demanded respect and could not be taken lightly.
In an interview with CBS’ 60 Minutes, Trump claimed he stopped eight wars during his presidency. “The only one I haven’t stopped yet is Russia-Ukraine, but that’ll happen,” he said.
Trump added that the United States regained global respect through his leadership and trade deals. He described Putin and Xi as tough and strategic, not the type to engage in small talk or idle smiles.
Trump also said he spoke with both leaders about denuclearisation. He stressed the need to reduce global nuclear threats. He argued that the US should resume nuclear testing to “see how it works.”
When reminded that Russia was only testing delivery systems, Trump disagreed. He claimed both Russia and China were testing nuclear weapons but not admitting it.
Trump said his good relationship with Putin could still help end the Ukraine war, which he called a top priority for peace.
