Fact Check: Debunking 11 Misleading Claims Trump Made to Troops in Japan | CNN Politics

During a recent speech to U.S. service members on an aircraft carrier in Japan, former President Donald Trump made several incorrect claims. He insisted again that he won the 2020 election—a statement contradicted by the verified results showing Joe Biden as the victor. He also stated that grocery prices were “way down,” yet current statistics reveal they have actually risen. The Consumer Price Index indicates a 2.7% increase from September 2024 to September 2025. Similarly, Trump declared that inflation was “defeated,” but it has been climbing, with a September inflation rate near 3%.

Another false assertion involved the idea that he ended eight wars during his administration. In reality, claims such as ending conflicts in Egypt and Ethiopia do not add up, as those countries have long been embroiled in unresolved diplomatic disputes rather than active warfare. Historical context shows that previous presidents, like Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton, have successfully mediated peace agreements or ended wars, making Trump’s claim unfounded.

Trump’s speech also included unrealistic figures. He claimed over $17 trillion had been invested in the U.S. in a short time—an exaggeration. His own White House cited approximately $8.9 trillion, much of which is theoretical investment rather than actual funds entering the economy. Moreover, his assessment of military actions against drug trafficking was misleading. He suggested that each targeted vessel threatened to kill 25,000 people, a number that seems implausible given the total drug-related deaths in the U.S. for 2024 reported by the CDC was about 82,000. Experts have criticized this figure, calling it a gross misrepresentation of reality.

Social media users have responded with disbelief over many of Trump’s statements, pointing out inconsistencies and the frequency of factual inaccuracies. Tracking these claims reveals a trend where he often recycles misinformation from prior speeches and campaigns.

Notably, surveys show that public trust in political leaders has been waning, with many citizens voicing concerns over the veracity of statements from both major parties. According to a recent Pew Research study, approximately 70% of Americans believe that political leaders often mislead the public.

Overall, this speech illustrates not only the ongoing issues with fact-checking political statements but also the broader landscape of misinformation that continues to influence public perceptions and discussion around key national issues.

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