US President Donald Trump suggested Russian President Vladimir Putin may be helping Iran “a little bit” amid escalating Middle East conflict. Trump made the remarks in a Fox News Radio interview, adding that the US could escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz if needed. He also vowed to strike Iran “very hard over the next week,” signaling intensified military operations.
Trump said Putin likely believes the US is helping Ukraine, creating a complex geopolitical situation. The president gave few additional details but emphasized America’s readiness to protect shipping lanes and global oil flow. He acknowledged the US-Israel war is driving oil prices close to $100 a barrel.
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The president further celebrated the elimination of Iran’s top leaders since the war began on February 28, calling them “deranged scumbags” responsible for decades of global violence. Trump claimed Iran’s military is being decimated and criticized media coverage that questions US success in the war.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the US would conduct the highest volume of strikes on Iran yet, emphasizing Tehran would face unprecedented bombardment. Trump’s statements followed recent airstrikes that damaged civilian areas, including residential buildings in Tehran, demonstrating the conflict’s growing human and infrastructural toll.
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The escalating strikes and rising oil prices highlight the intensifying regional and global stakes. Analysts warn that continued US-Iran-Israel hostilities may further destabilize energy markets and increase international geopolitical tensions in the weeks ahead.