Trump Describes the Islamic Republic as a 'Corrupt Dictatorship' in Annual Speech

During his annual speech to the U.S. Congress, Donald Trump called for bipartisan cooperation, mentioned the need for a wall at the Mexican border, described the Iranian government as a 'corrupt dictatorship,' and confirmed the time and place for his second meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Trump characterized the Iranian government as the 'main state sponsor of terrorism' and a 'radical regime,' asserting that his administration is 'decisive' in countering it. He stated that to prevent Iran from acquiring 'nuclear weapons,' he withdrew from the 'disastrous' nuclear deal with Tehran. Iran has denied allegations of seeking nuclear weapons. The Obama administration, which reached the agreement with Iran, claimed it would prevent the Islamic Republic from advancing in nuclear weapon development for a long time. Trump defended the re-imposition of sanctions against Iran, claiming they are 'the toughest ever imposed on a country.' Last spring, Trump exited the nuclear agreement made by the previous U.S. administration with Tehran. Other negotiators on the nuclear program, including Washington's European allies, have remained in the agreement. U.S. sanctions against Iran have been reinstated in two rounds, and Washington has called for extensive negotiations on various issues, including Iran's nuclear program, missile program, and regional activities, a topic Tehran has not yet agreed to. Trump also stated, 'We do not take our eyes off a government that chants 'Death to America' and threatens to commit genocide against Jews.' In his speech, Trump confirmed that he will soon meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, expressed support for protests against Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, and defended his decision to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria. In his second annual State of the Union address, Trump called for bipartisan cooperation, stating that the priorities of his administration belong neither to Republicans nor Democrats but to all Americans: 'Victory means victory for our country, not just for our party.' Trump praised the country's economic situation, claiming a 'economic miracle' is occurring in America, and the only thing that could stop it is 'stupid wars' or 'ridiculous partisan investigations.' This seems to refer to the ongoing investigations by the special counsel regarding allegations of 'Russian interference' in the 2016 presidential election. Russia has been accused by U.S. intelligence agencies of interfering in favor of Trump in the U.S. elections. Donald Trump has denied any collusion with Moscow. Trump mentioned sending a new contingent of military forces to the Mexican border to prevent a new wave of 'massive' illegal immigration. The U.S. Department of Defense announced on February 1 that it would send an additional 3,750 troops to Central America and Mexico to support border patrols. The U.S. President reiterated the need for increased border security in the southern part of the country, discussing 'crimes' and 'criminal acts' committed by criminals: 'We have a moral duty to create an immigration system that does not endanger the lives and jobs of American citizens.' There are deep disagreements between Trump and the Democrats, who hold a majority in the House of Representatives, regarding how to secure the southern borders. One of the main points of contention is Trump's request for $5.7 billion in funding to build the wall at the border. However, Democrats oppose funding for the wall and have called for pursuing other methods to secure the borders. The U.S. President stated that his administration has sent 'a proposal based on sound judgment' that includes a plan to build 'physical barriers or a wall' at the southern borders. Trump praised the unprecedented number of female lawmakers in Congress. The U.S. President reiterated that his country will respond to China's financial and economic policies and that any agreement with Beijing 'must be based on real and fundamental changes to end unfair trading practices' with the United States. In parts of his annual speech, Donald Trump addressed his administration's foreign policy, discussing Iran, Venezuela, the fight against ISIS, North Korea, and other issues. Trump stated that the U.S. government supports the 'genuine desire of the Venezuelan people for freedom.' The U.S. President confirmed that he will meet for the second time with Kim Jong-un on February 27 and 28 in Vietnam. He emphasized that he does not intend to engage in endless wars. Referring to Syria, Trump stated that under his administration, the group known as ISIS 'has practically lost all its territory' and defended his decision regarding the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria. Trump also expressed hope for a political agreement to reduce U.S. forces in Afghanistan and achieve peace in that country, stating that officials are engaged in 'constructive talks with several Afghan groups, including the Taliban.' The withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria and Afghanistan has faced bipartisan criticism; both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, including some of Trump's own party members, have criticized the decision. A day earlier, the U.S. Senate had voted symbolically to criticize Trump's decision regarding the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria and Afghanistan, warning about a 'hasty withdrawal' from the region. The U.S. representative for Afghanistan is currently advancing negotiations to reach an agreement with the Taliban and establish peace in Afghanistan. However, the Afghan government has emphasized that negotiations concerning their country must be conducted directly by the central government in Kabul.