In a recent media appearance, U.S. President Donald Trump downplayed concerns about growing strategic ties between China and Russia, asserting that neither nation would dare challenge the United States militarily due to its unmatched defense capabilities.

Speaking in a radio interview, Trump emphasized, “We have the strongest military in the world, by far. They would never use their military on us. Believe me, that would be the worst thing they could ever do.” His remarks come amid heightened global attention on Beijing and Moscow’s efforts to present a united front against Western dominance.

Trump also expressed disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing a lack of progress in ending the war in Ukraine. He reframed the issue as a humanitarian concern, stating, “It’s not a question of Ukraine. It’s helping people live.”

The comments followed a major summit in Tianjin, China, where Presidents Xi Jinping and Putin criticized Western influence and showcased military strength, including China’s largest-ever parade commemorating the end of World War II. Trump, however, dismissed the parade’s geopolitical implications, reiterating his belief in the U.S.’s strategic leverage and his personal rapport with Xi.