Trump Announces National Security Advisor Replacement, Addresses Trade and Cartel Concerns

President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday night, addressed a range of pressing issues facing his administration, including the impending appointment of a new national security advisor, ongoing trade negotiations, and the persistent problem of Mexican drug cartels. The impromptu press conference offered insights into Trump’s decision-making process and priorities as he navigates these complex challenges.

National Security Advisor Transition

The most immediate announcement concerned the departure of current National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. Trump clarified that Waltz was not resigning, as some reports had suggested, but rather being nominated for the prestigious position of United States Ambassador to the United Nations. This, according to Trump, constitutes a promotion or "upgrade" for Waltz, reflecting the administration’s confidence in his abilities.

"I didn’t lose confidence in him," Trump emphasized, underscoring that the move was not a reflection of any shortcomings on Waltz’s part. "He’s going to the United Nations for a reason. To me, I think it’s personally, if I had assurance for myself… I’d rather have that job than the other." Trump highlighted the significance of the UN ambassadorship, suggesting that it holds greater appeal than the role of national security advisor.

Trump further asserted that the decision to move Waltz was entirely his own, preempting any speculation about a forced resignation. "There was no resignation," he reiterated. The timing of the announcement, coming shortly after news of Waltz’s departure from the National Security Council began circulating, appeared to be an effort to control the narrative and portray the transition as a planned and positive development.

The president indicated that a new national security advisor would be appointed within the next six months, acknowledging the high level of interest in the position. In the interim, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will assume the responsibilities of national security advisor.

When specifically asked about the potential candidacy of White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, Trump acknowledged Miller’s significant influence within the administration. "Stephen Miller at the top of the totem pole? I mean, I think he sort of indirectly already has that job… because he has a lot to say about a lot of things," Trump said. "He’s a very valued person in the administration, Stephen Miller." While not explicitly confirming or denying Miller’s consideration, Trump’s remarks suggested that Miller is a key player in shaping national security policy.

Trade Negotiations and Economic Strategy

Turning to economic matters, Trump addressed the ongoing trade negotiations with various countries, including China. He hinted at the possibility of upcoming announcements this week but refrained from providing specific details.

Trump reiterated his firm stance on trade, emphasizing his control over the negotiation process. "Nobody understands," he said. "We’re negotiating with many countries. But at the end of this, I’ll set my own deals because I set the deal. They don’t set the deal. I set the deal." He explained that his approach involves setting tariffs and allowing countries to either accept the terms or decline to trade with the U.S.

The president contrasted his approach with that of the previous administration, led by President Biden, asserting that the U.S. had been losing billions of dollars daily under Biden’s trade policies. "We’re losing $5 billion a day," he claimed. "Now we’re not dealing with China at all because of the tariffs… Because of that, we’re saving billions of dollars." This statement reflects Trump’s belief that tariffs are an effective tool for protecting American interests and correcting perceived trade imbalances.

Addressing the Cartel Crisis in Mexico

A significant portion of the press conference focused on the escalating problem of Mexican drug cartels. Trump confirmed reports that he had offered to send U.S. troops to Mexico to assist in combating the cartels, but that the offer had been declined by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

"It’s true because they should be. They are horrible people that have been killing people left and right," Trump stated, expressing his strong condemnation of the cartels’ activities. He attributed the flow of fentanyl into the U.S., which he claimed has resulted in over 300,000 deaths this year, to the cartels.

Trump described the cartel members as "bad news" and reiterated his willingness to provide assistance to Mexico. "If Mexico wanted help with the cartels, we would be honored to go in and do it," he said. He attributed Sheinbaum’s refusal to the alleged fear of the cartels, suggesting that she is "so afraid that she can’t even think straight."

Trump’s comments on the cartel issue underscore his administration’s hardline stance on border security and drug trafficking. The offer to send U.S. troops, despite its rejection, signals his willingness to take aggressive action to address the problem, even if it means potentially infringing on Mexican sovereignty. The rhetoric used was strong and designed to portray the cartels as an existential threat to the United States.