President Trump delivered the commencement address at the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, praising the graduating cadets for their dedication and urging them to prioritize America’s interests. Speaking from Cadet Memorial Field, Trump reaffirmed his firm stance against Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons, declaring that the United States would not allow Iran to obtain such capabilities.
Trump emphasized that any ceasefire negotiations with Iran must advantage U.S. interests. He also praised the ongoing U.S. naval blockade of Iran, highlighting recent Coast Guard success collaborating with the Navy to intercept ships traveling to and from Iran. In a vivid example, Trump recounted an incident where a shell reportedly damaged a ship’s rudder, causing it to fall into the ocean.
This event marked Trump’s first return to the academy for a commencement speech since 2017. Alongside him, Admiral Kevin Lunday and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin addressed the cadets. The atmosphere on the grounds was celebratory, with cadets tossing their caps in the air as military aircraft performed flyovers.
Outside the ceremony, about 100 protesters assembled at a busy New London intersection, combining peaceful opposition to Trump with respect for the new graduates. Many were military veterans, including Vietnam War veteran Steven Schimmel, who criticized Trump’s history of draft avoidance and questioned his suitability as commander-in-chief. Schimmel, also a longtime Environmental Protection Agency researcher, stood prominently in the sun to highlight his protest sign.
Temperatures nearing 90 degrees led some protesters to seek shade, yet the rally maintained a presence. Makenzie Metivier, representing the newly formed Unify and Resist Coalition—a network of progressive groups in Connecticut—explained the coalition’s goal to raise awareness around Trump’s policies during the event while honoring the service of the cadets.