In a lengthy and wide-ranging address that captivated political observers, former US President Donald Trump spoke to Republican lawmakers in Washington, DC, making several eye-opening remarks about global leaders, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event, held at the Trump Kennedy Center on Tuesday, December 6, 2026, stretched for 1 hour and 25 minutes and covered topics from foreign policy to his own administration's achievements.
Trump's Comments on World Leaders: From Praise to Mockery
The 79-year-old leader referenced three prominent international figures during his speech. His most aggressive comments were directed at Venezuela's former President, Nicolas Maduro. Trump praised a US military operation that led to the capture of Maduro and his wife on January 3, 2026. He justified the action by calling Maduro a "violent guy" who had "killed millions of people" and even mocked his dancing.
Shifting focus to an ally, Trump recounted his relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He revealed that India had ordered 68 Apache helicopters but faced a five-year wait for delivery, which prompted PM Modi to reach out directly. "I have a very good relationship with him," Trump stated, while acknowledging tensions over tariffs. He claimed tariffs had been "reduced substantially, because of Russia," and boasted that over $650 billion was set to flow into the US from such measures.
Tariffs and Threats: The Macron Prescription Drug Saga
One of the most controversial segments involved French President Emmanuel Macron. Trump detailed how he confronted world leaders about prescription drug prices, arguing America was subsidizing lower costs abroad. He specifically cited the drug Ozempic, claiming the US paid 14 times more.
Trump said he threatened Macron with a 25% tariff on all French imports, including wines and champagnes, if France did not agree to raise its drug prices. According to Trump, Macron quickly capitulated, replying, "you have a deal... it would be such an honour" to increase prices by 200%.
Global Repercussions and Awaiting Responses
The speech, intended to rally Republican leaders for midterm elections, has sparked international buzz. While Nicolas Maduro and his wife face trial in New York, there has been no official response yet from the offices of Prime Minister Narendra Modi or President Emmanuel Macron to Trump's claims. The comments have placed a fresh spotlight on Trump's foreign policy approach and his relationships with key global partners and adversaries.
Analysts are watching closely to see how these revelations impact diplomatic ties, especially the strategic partnership between the US and India, which Trump described as personally strong but complicated by trade issues.