Trump State of the Union 2026: Venezuela Operation, Tariffs & Iran Dominate Speech

Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term, outlining economic achievements, security operations, immigration priorities and global policy positions amid political headwinds and global uncertainty.

The speech, one of his longest addresses to Congress, comes as the administration faces legal setbacks on tariffs, rising geopolitical tensions and declining approval ratings ahead of midterm elections.

Venezuela operation and anti-drug campaign highlighted

Trump praised recent security operations targeting international crime networks and authoritarian regimes.

He pointed to:

• the arrest of Nicolás Maduro, describing it as ending the rule of an “outlaw dictator”

• Mexico’s operation against cartel leader El Mencho

• US strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean

The administration framed these actions as part of a broader campaign against narcotics trafficking and transnational criminal networks.

Tariffs, trade and economic claims take center stage

Trump defended his trade strategy despite the US Supreme Court striking down global tariffs.

Key economic claims included:

• tariffs will continue under alternative legal measures

• foreign tariffs could eventually replace income tax

• inflation has fallen to a five-year low

• the stock market has recorded multiple record highs

• trillions in investments have flowed into the US

He insisted trade deals are forcing countries that “ripped off” the US to pay billions.

Tough stance on immigration and border security

Immigration remained a central theme of the address.

Trump said:

• the administration’s “first duty” is protecting American citizens

• illegal crossings have fallen to record lows

• fentanyl trafficking has dropped sharply

• undocumented migrants involved in violent crimes will be deported

He urged Congress to pass the Delilah Law, which would restrict commercial driving licences for undocumented immigrants.

Iran tensions and nuclear warning

Trump called Iran the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism while signaling openness to diplomacy ahead of talks in Geneva.

He warned the US would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons and blamed Iranian authorities for deaths during recent protests.

Domestic politics and cultural flashpoints

The speech also featured sharp political rhetoric and cultural commentary:

• tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk

• criticism of immigration policies and cultural impacts

• exchange with Representative Ilhan Omar

• call for national unity and rejection of political violence

Trump also honoured Olympic gold medal-winning US hockey star Connor Hellebuyck with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Global conflicts and security claims

Trump reiterated claims that his administration helped end multiple global conflicts and said efforts are underway to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

He framed his foreign policy as restoring American strength and global respect.

Political backdrop ahead of midterms

The address comes as Trump seeks to consolidate support ahead of November midterm elections. While the administration touts economic growth and border security gains, opinion polls indicate voter concerns over inflation, foreign policy and cost-of-living pressures.

The speech reinforced the administration’s core themes: economic nationalism, border enforcement and assertive global leadership.