Story perspectives

Trump's Oval Office Talk: National Interests Over International Law

1/13/2026

Summary

Trump's Oval Office Dialogue

U.S. President Donald Trump spoke nearly two hours in the Oval Office.
He then held an off-the-record call with Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
The interview covered the Minneapolis ICE shooting, U.S. immigration policy, Venezuela, Russia-Ukraine, Greenland, and NATO.
Trump said he would use American power for national interests and would ignore international law.
The Times plans to publish a transcript and additional coverage soon.

History

Historical Context

The Monroe Doctrine, articulated by President James Monroe in 1823, established U.S. opposition to European colonization in the Americas. This policy has evolved, with President Trump invoking it to assert U.S. dominance in Latin America, particularly regarding Venezuela. Trump's administration's actions, including military discussions with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, reflect ongoing U.S. influence in the region, underscoring the doctrine's lasting significance.

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Trump's Oval Office Dialogue

U.S. President Donald Trump spoke nearly two hours in the Oval Office.
He then held an off-the-record call with Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
The interview covered the Minneapolis ICE shooting, U.S. immigration policy, Venezuela, Russia-Ukraine, Greenland, and NATO.
Trump said he would use American power for national interests and would ignore international law.
The Times plans to publish a transcript and additional coverage soon.

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