In Testy Interview, Trump Dismisses Economic Concerns and Dodges Questions on Foreign Policy

WASHINGTON — In a tense and sometimes chaotic interview with Politico reporter Dasha Burns, former President Donald J. Trump forcefully rejected Americans’ concerns about rising prices, dismissed warnings from his own supporters and repeatedly declined to clarify his administration’s approach to several rapidly escalating foreign policy crises.

The sit-down, recorded during a period of heightened political scrutiny for the White House, offered a revealing portrait of a president who bristled at even modest challenges and showed little patience for questions about the economic strain facing households ahead of the holiday season.

Pressed on what grade he would give the economy, Mr. Trump immediately replied, “A+ — A-plus-plus,” leaning back and inhaling sharply as he grew visibly annoyed. Ms. Burns then read a statement from a Pennsylvania supporter who praised the president but said groceries, utilities, insurance and small-business costs were rising “faster than wages.”

Mr. Trump brushed aside the concern. “I love her because she gave me an A++,” he said, before insisting that “prices are coming down substantially,” particularly on energy. Independent data, however, show that inflation, which had cooled earlier in his term, has risen again in recent months, and that most core consumer costs remain elevated.

Throughout the exchange, Mr. Trump repeatedly accused Americans of being “dramatic” about affordability, even as polls show broad majorities reporting financial strain. Economists warn that the administration’s assertions of improvement are at odds with current trends.

The interview then shifted to foreign policy, where Mr. Trump’s frustration sharpened further. Asked about his claim that Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro’s “days are numbered,” he repeatedly refused to rule out an American ground invasion, instead attacking the publication conducting the interview.

“Why would I talk to you — an extremely unfriendly publication?” he said, accusing Politico of bias. “I am the most transparent politician in the world,” he added moments later.

Mr. Trump’s reluctance to clarify U.S. strategy in Venezuela comes as officials grapple with the regional consequences of earlier drone strikes and increasing pressure to define long-term objectives.

Ms. Burns also questioned the president about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s controversial “second strike” on a capsized vessel allegedly involved in drug trafficking. The strike, captured on widely circulated video, left two men dead and has raised legal questions among lawmakers and military analysts.

Mr. Trump offered no clear position. “I don’t care if he testifies,” he said. “He’s doing a great job.” He added that he did not “get involved” in operational decisions, a contrast with his repeated interventions in Justice Department matters involving political rivals.

Military officials reviewing the incident have noted that the vessel was already disabled and its occupants lacked communication equipment, raising doubts about whether the strike met U.S. rules of engagement. Analysts say the president’s evasiveness suggested an effort to distance himself from potential fallout.

The interview, punctuated by interruptions, grievances and extended digressions, highlighted a president increasingly defensive about both domestic and international criticism. While Mr. Trump’s supporters may applaud his combative posture, the exchange underscored broader concerns inside Washington about the administration’s direction — and about a leader who, even when confronted with friendly sources, appears unwilling to engage on the substance of his own policies.