Trump accuses Iran of 'blood lust' in U.N. speech
Speaking to the annual gathering of world leaders at the global cooperative formed in the aftermath of World War II, U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday made a strong case for going at it alone:
SOUNDBITE (ENGLISH) US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, SAYING:
"The future does not belong to globalists, the future belongs to patriots...The free world must embrace its national foundations. It must not attempt to erase them or replace them."
But amid the nationalistic rhetoric about borders and sovereignty in his third speech before the UN, an appeal to allies to band together in confronting Iran.
SOUNDBITE (ENGLISH) US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, SAYING:
"All nations have a duty to act. No responsible government should subsidize Iran's blood lust"
Trump called for help pressuring Iran after attacks on Saudi oil facilities that he blames on Iran but Iran denies. Trump said as tensions rise, there is a path to peace.
SOUNDBITE (ENGLISH) US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, SAYING:
"America is ready to embrace friendship with all who genuinely seek peace and respect. We want partners, not adversaries. America know that while anyone can make war, only the most courageous can choose peace."
While boasting about the US' military might, this time the pugilistic president toned down his previous threats of military confrontation, and instead he signaled a weariness with what he called endless wars.
He also urged the nations of the world pay up for security
This comes as a controvsery swirls around the president, amid accusations he withheld military aid to Ukraine while asking Ukraine's president to investigate Joe Biden. Trump on Tuesday denied there was a quid pro quo, but did acknowledging withholding aid.
SOUNDBITE (ENGLISH) US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, SAYING:
"My complaint has always been -- and I'd withhold again, and I'll continue to withhold until such time as Europe and other nations contribute to Ukraine."
The brewing scandal threatens to overshadow Trump's UN appearance, as more Democrats in Congress are now calling to begin an impeachment inquiry.
