Pentagon Press Conference Defends Strikes on Iran; Trump Considers More Aid for Ukraine | NTD Good Morning (June 26)

President Donald Trump says the recent U.S. strikes successfully took out Iran’s nuclear sites, setting its nuclear ambitions back decades. Trump cited fresh intelligence, including confirmation by Israeli agents. Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that Iran’s nuclear fuel conversion facility for nuclear weapons was destroyed. Iran admitted on Wednesday, for the first time, that its nuclear sites were badly damaged. The United States and Iran will meet next week for negotiations on a potential nuclear agreement.

Trump says he’s considering sending more Patriot missiles to Ukraine after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the recent NATO summit. NATO members highlighted the importance of aiding Kyiv, and the United States has routinely pressed for its NATO allies to provide air defense systems to Ukraine. Many have been reluctant to supply the high-tech systems, however, especially countries in Eastern Europe that also consider Russia a threat.

Lawmakers are gearing up for a long weekend of negotiations as Republicans look to finalize details in their big budget bill. A few issues still remain, including the cap on state and local tax deductions and Medicaid. A few Republicans share concerns with Democrats about what Medicaid cuts could mean for rural hospitals. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said he’s optimistic and that he is looking forward to the Senate getting it done by Saturday to pave the way for a vote early next week.