Trump Claims Massive Earnings — Bigger Than U.S. Aid to Ukraine
Donald Trump made headlines again after boldly claiming he earned billions more than what the U.S. has given Ukraine in aid. He made the statement during an interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier while visiting Abu Dhabi.
A Question of War and Wealth
During the interview, Baier brought up Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine. He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has ignored Trump’s public pleas to stop the bombings. On April 24, Trump had urged Putin to halt attacks after a deadly airstrike killed nine and injured 70 civilians.
Trump Threatens Sanctions
On May 8, Trump posted on Truth Social, warning of “further sanctions” if Russia didn’t agree to a ceasefire.
He wrote:
“The U.S. calls for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. If not respected, we and our partners will impose more sanctions. Thousands of young soldiers are dying weekly. This must STOP.”
Although Russia responded by suggesting talks in Turkey—something Trump initially supported—he later backed out. Instead, Russian officials attended without Putin. Trump skipped the meeting, saying he didn’t want to disappoint the UAE.
Trump Boasts Earnings While Discussing War
While discussing the war and funding, Trump pivoted to his personal finances.
“I don’t want to see 5,000 people die each week,” he told Baier. “But outside of the money—which is a big deal—I can make it back. I made 12 times that amount on this trip. I’ve always been good with money.”
When Baier reminded him it wasn’t about money but pressure on Putin, Trump doubled down:
“I know. But I made 12 times what we sent to Ukraine in four days.”
The Numbers Don’t Add Up
Since Russia’s 2022 invasion, the U.S. has provided between $119.7 billion and $182.8 billion in aid, depending on the source. Yet, Trump claimed the figure was $350 billion, without proof.
If Trump’s numbers were accurate, that would mean he earned $4.2 trillion in four days. Unsurprisingly, critics aren’t buying it.