Trump: 'A large military force' is heading towards Iran

SadaNews - American President Donald Trump stated late Thursday to Friday that "a large military force" is heading towards Iran and that he is monitoring the situation in the country "closely."

Trump added in remarks to reporters aboard Air Force One that "I prefer nothing to happen regarding Iran," but he clarified that secondary tariffs he had announced would soon be applied to countries conducting trade with Tehran. Trump continued that he threatened Iran with military action that would make previous U.S. strikes against its nuclear sites "look like nothing" if the government proceeds with planned executions of some protesters.

A Navy official confirmed that the aircraft carrier "Abraham Lincoln" and three accompanying destroyers left the South China Sea and began heading west earlier this week. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military movements, said on Thursday that the "Lincoln" strike group is currently in the Indian Ocean.

Regarding Greenland, the American president said that NATO will play a role on the island and that the framework regarding Greenland, which has autonomous rule under Denmark's sovereignty, "includes good things for Europe."

In response to a question about the tripartite negotiations between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia in the UAE, the American president said, "We will see what happens." Trump expressed his belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky want to reach an agreement, adding, "Zelensky told me today that he wants to reach an agreement." Trump continued, "It's really difficult for the people of Ukraine," commenting on the cold climate in the country, where he said it's "amazing" how the residents have managed to endure the harsh winters.

Regarding Venezuela, the American president stated that American oil companies will soon begin oil exploration, despite some companies' skepticism about the feasibility of rushing back to the country.

Trump also clarified that he will visit China in April and that Chinese President Xi Jinping will travel to the United States near the end of 2026. Trump mentioned, "I look forward to seeing President Xi." He added, "I have always had a great relationship with the Chinese president."

Trump acknowledged that relations between the two largest economies in the world soured during the COVID-19 pandemic but have improved significantly since then. He said that China is now purchasing large quantities of American soybeans, which is good for American farmers.