U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders expressed concern on Wednesday that President Donald Trump may be serious about pursuing a third term in office. Sanders stated that he believes Trump’s motivations are centered on consolidating power and enriching a network of wealthy allies. “What he wants is power and wealth for his oligarch friends. So nothing would surprise me about Trump,” Sanders said.

Speaking during a public forum, Sanders criticized Trump’s rhetoric and policies, particularly in the area of international relations. He warned that the president’s approach to trade and diplomacy is damaging America’s long-standing alliances. “These are our allies. We defeated Nazism, fighting with our friends in the UK and France, throughout Europe,” he noted.

Sanders underscored the deterioration in ties with neighboring countries as well. “And now they're saying, ‘What in God’s name is going on with the United States of America?’” he remarked, suggesting that international confusion and concern are mounting as Trump’s actions diverge from traditional U.S. foreign policy norms.

The Vermont senator’s comments come amid growing speculation about Trump’s long-term political ambitions and a broader debate over the direction of U.S. leadership. Critics argue that repeated challenges to institutional norms under Trump’s administration have raised fears about the erosion of democratic principles.

While the U.S. Constitution currently prohibits a third presidential term, Sanders’ remarks reflect heightened anxiety within political circles about future attempts to alter such limits or ignore precedents. The implications of such concerns have extended to America’s credibility abroad and the stability of its global partnerships.

With tensions continuing both domestically and internationally, Sanders called for a recommitment to democratic values and stronger ties with allies. “What we need now is not isolation or division, but unity with the countries that have stood by us for generations,” he said.