Donald Trump believes that China respects him because President Xi Jinping knows he’s “crazy” and wouldn’t dare provoke him if he returns to the White House. In a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal’s editorial board, Trump claimed that his unpredictable nature would keep America’s adversaries in check.

Trump vowed to impose tariffs on China if it blockades Taiwan, stating, “I would say: if you go into Taiwan, I’m sorry to do this, I’m going to tax you at 150% to 200%.” He also boasted about his strong relationship with President Xi, describing him as “a very fierce person” whom he got along with “great.”

The former president also spoke positively about his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite criticism for praising the Russian leader. Trump claimed he threatened Putin not to invade Ukraine, saying, “I’m going to hit you right in the middle of fricking Moscow.”

Trump’s foreign policy approach, branded “America First,” prioritizes trade wars and ending US involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war. However, critics label it isolationist. His running mate, JD Vance, opposes sending more US aid to Ukraine, alarming the country’s allies.

Trump defended his hardline immigration stance, emphasizing legal entry and mass deportations of illegal immigrants. He also justified the “zero tolerance” migrant family-separation policy, saying it deters families from crossing the border.

Regarding election unrest, Trump cited President Joe Biden’s concerns about a peaceful election and refused to rule out using the military against domestic threats. “If you’re going to have riots on the street, you would certainly bring the National Guard in,” Trump said.