President Trump has declared that his authority as commander in chief is constrained only by his personal judgment, downplaying the role of international law and treaties in limiting U.S. military and diplomatic actions.
Speaking in a wide-ranging interview with The New York Times, President Trump said, “Yeah, there is one thing. My own morality. My own mind. It’s the only thing that can stop me,” adding, “I don’t need international law. I’m not looking to hurt people.” When pressed on whether the United States must adhere to international law, he said, “I do,” but qualified the statement by noting, “It depends what your definition of international law is,” making clear he would determine when such rules apply.
The president’s remarks underscored a worldview centered on national strength rather than treaties or global norms, as he defended coercive diplomacy and recent military actions, including operations in Venezuela and pressure on allies over defense spending. He cited past strikes, NATO burden-sharing, and his push for U.S. ownership of Greenland as examples of decisive leadership, saying, “Ownership is very important,” and arguing that control delivers advantages beyond agreements or leases.
While acknowledging some domestic constraints, President Trump said judges could limit his actions only “under certain circumstances,” and reiterated his willingness to invoke emergency powers if necessary, adding that so far, “I haven’t really felt the need to do it.”