Camilla Jessen
‘I don’t need international law,’ Trump tells New York Times.
In an interview with The New York Times, U.S. President Donald Trump said that the only thing restraining his authority as president is his “own morality” and his own mind.
His comments have drawn widespread attention because they appear to reject traditional limits on presidential power.
‘I don’t need international law’
Trump told The New York Times that he doesn’t feel bound by international law in deciding how to act as president.
“I don’t need international law,” he said, though later adding that whether the U.S. adheres to it “depends on what your definition of international law is.”
When asked what could prevent him from acting without restraint, he replied that only his own personal morals and judgment serve as limitations:
“There is one thing. My own morality. My own mind. It’s the only thing that can stop me.”
Trump also said he was not looking to “hurt people,” framing his stance as prioritizing U.S. national interest over global rules.
Context of remarks
The interview comes at a time of several controversial policies and actions, including Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland and a recent U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro (covered widely in global media).
Legal and constitutional experts say that in the U.S. system, the president’s authority is subject to checks by Congress, the courts, and international agreements (such as the United Nations Charter and the Constitution’s allocation of war powers).
Trump’s comments have sparked concern among lawmakers and analysts who see them as part of broader efforts to stretch presidential authority.
Sources: The New York Times
