UPDATE: First Lady Melania Trump delivered urgent remarks today, emphasizing the critical role of artificial intelligence in modern warfare during a visit to Marine Corps Air Station New River. This visit marks her first joint appearance with Second Lady Usha Vance as they commemorated the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary.
Trump warned that AI will redefine military strategy, stating, “Technology is changing the art of war. Predictably, AI will alter war more profoundly than any technology since nuclear weapons.” Her comments come as the Trump administration intensifies its focus on integrating AI into national defense.
During her speech, Trump highlighted the significance of the Marine Corps’ legacy, honoring its two-and-a-half centuries of service. She welcomed Sergeant Blake Donoher and Corporal Daishamari Cannon on stage, reinforcing the human element in military operations amid technological advancements.
Trump remarked, “Artificial intelligence is propelling America’s military into a new era,” stressing that the transition from human operators to machine oversight is accelerating. “Autonomous helicopters, swarming drones, and recon aircraft are already operational,” she stated. This shift, she asserted, will fundamentally change the landscape of warfare.
“We are moving from human operators to human overseers — fast,” Trump emphasized. “The most significant change will be speed.”
In a related development, President Trump posted on Truth Social earlier this week, calling for a unified federal standard for AI regulation, rather than a fragmented approach across states. This aligns with his administration’s broader initiative, the “Winning the AI Race: America’s AI Action Plan,” released in July.
The visit coincided with Thanksgiving preparations, allowing both the First and Second Ladies to engage with military-connected students at nearby Camp Lejeune. As part of the Presidential Artificial Intelligence Challenge, students showcased AI-driven projects, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to fostering innovation.
In a touching moment, Trump embraced a nervous first-grader during a classroom visit, encouraging him to engage with her. “Don’t be shy,” she said, bridging the gap between high-level defense discussions and the personal impact on service families.
Concluding her remarks, Trump expressed gratitude to service members and their families, stating, “To every Service Member — thank you for standing watch so others can celebrate in peace. You serve our country, too.” Her heartfelt message resonated with the audience as preparations for the Marine Corps birthday on November 10 approached.
This event highlights a significant shift in the Trump administration’s approach to military defense, with AI poised to take a central role in future operations. As developments continue, the military community and the public will be watching closely to see how these technologies reshape America’s defense strategy.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
