3 hours ago
During West Point's graduation ceremony, Trump gave a rally-style speech, praising cadets, claiming credit for rebuilding the military, attacking "woke" policies, and asserting a 2024 mandate to reshape US defense priorities.
Trump gave a rally-style speech, praising cadets, claiming credit for rebuilding the military. (Photo: X)
UPDATED: May 25, 2025 03:17 IST
US President Donald Trump delivered the commencement address at West Point, using the country’s prestigious military academy to both honor the graduating class of 2025 and deliver a highly political speech. Speaking to 1,002 cadets at Michie Stadium, Trump congratulated them on joining “the greatest and most powerful army the world has ever known,” attributing that strength to his own leadership.
“I rebuilt the military,” Trump said. “And we rebuilt it like nobody has ever rebuilt it before in my first term.” Wearing a red “Make America Great Again” hat, he praised the US as the “hottest country in the world” and promoted his “America First” approach, stressing that the armed forces should focus solely on defeating enemies and defending the flag—not social initiatives.
“We’re getting rid of distractions,” he said. “The job of the US armed forces is not to host drag shows or transform foreign cultures.”
BREAKING: Trump is wearing a MAGA hat while speaking at the West Point commencement. This is an astonishing politicization of our military. Not to mention that he’s ranting about “stealth” planes. Incoherent. Embarrassing. Un-American. pic.twitter.com/m6kVrWaZBR— Trump Lie Tracker (Commentary) (@MAGALieTracker) May 24, 2025
Trump said the cadets were graduating at a “defining moment” in Army history, criticizing past administrations for “nation-building crusades” and imposing “divisive” ideologies like critical race theory and transgender inclusion. He claimed a “great mandate” from voters in the 2024 election gave him the authority to reshape the military and government.
Amid applause, Trump praised individual cadets, including Chris Verdugo for completing a grueling 18.5-mile march and Army quarterback Bryson Daily, whom he used to argue against transgender women in women’s sports. He also acknowledged the nationally ranked men’s lacrosse team and pardoned several cadets facing disciplinary action.
Mixing humor and nostalgia, Trump referenced yachts, “trophy wives,” and his late friend William Levitt. His advice to the graduates included taking risks, rejecting conformity, and having faith in America.
“This is a time of incredible change,” he said. “We don’t need yes men. We need patriots with guts, vision, and backbone.”
Outside the ceremony, demonstrators held signs and flags, voicing mixed messages ranging from veteran support to anti-fascism.
(With inputs from The Associated Press)
Published By:
Aashish Vashistha
Published On:
May 25, 2025
Tune In
