Former President Donald Trump delivered a speech on Monday during the National Guard Association of the United States' annual business meeting in Detroit, where he emphasized the unprecedented dangers faced by the world and positioned himself as the best equipped to prevent these threats. Speaking to a crowd of National Guard officers, Trump declared, "I don't think we've ever been closer to World War III than we are now."

Trump expressed his gratitude for serving as their commander-in-chief, stating that it was the greatest honor of his life. In contrast, he portrayed his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, as a supporter of "endless war." Notably, on the same day, Harris stood by President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from Afghanistan.

During his speech, Trump pledged to bring an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine following the Russian invasion. He asserted that he was the only candidate capable of making such a commitment. Additionally, he promised to secure higher payments from NATO countries, criticising the current payments as the "steal of the century." Trump argued that the United States shouldn't bear the burden of defending Europe alone and insisted that NATO countries should contribute more financially.

Addressing domestic concerns, Trump reiterated past claims that his political enemies have weaponized the government to target their opponents, potentially alluding to his own legal troubles. He specifically mentioned the pending criminal cases against him. Trump also emphasized the need to seal the U.S. Southern border, characterizing illegal border crossings as an "invasion."

In response to Trump's speech, Harris for President Rapid Response Director Ammar Moussa stated, "Trump cannot be trusted to keep us safe, but Vice President Harris is a proven leader on the world stage and will use her expertise to ensure America's security, defeat our adversaries, and stand with our allies around the world."

Michigan is a crucial battleground state for Trump, as he faces a close race against Harris, who currently holds a small lead in the polls. In his seventh visit to Michigan this year, Trump received support from musician Kid Rock, who introduced him wearing a "Keep America Great" hat. Former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, a Democrat-turned-Trump-ally, also endorsed Trump during the event.

The venue for Trump's speech, Huntington Place, holds historical significance as it was the same convention hall where his supporters demanded the stoppage of the vote count during the 2016 election. Trump's supporters have once again begun mobilizing as election workers and challengers for this year's election.

After his speech, Trump made a brief stop at his campaign office in Roseville, where he was greeted by volunteers and supporters. Despite his loss four years ago, Trump conveyed optimism about the upcoming election and asserted that he sees even greater enthusiasm for his candidacy.

Trump questioned the legitimacy of Harris' entry into the race, alluding to her late acceptance of the Democratic Party's nomination at the recent convention. When asked if he would accept the results of the election, he did not provide a direct response.

Before his visit to Detroit, Trump participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, commemorating the third anniversary of a terrorist attack outside Kabul Airport. During his speech, he attempted to link Harris to Biden's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, though it remains unclear how much influence Harris had in shaping Biden's strategy.

President Joe Biden, who virtually addressed the National Guard officers, expressed his gratitude for their service and emphasized the debt owed to them. Having endorsed Harris as his replacement following his own campaign against Trump, Biden's decision caused a shake-up in the race, requiring adjustments for the Trump campaign.

In conclusion, Trump's speech at the National Guard Association of the United States' annual business meeting emphasized his position as the strongest candidate to address global and domestic threats. With his focus on international dangers and promises to end conflicts, secure higher NATO payments, and tackle domestic concerns such as illegal border crossings, Trump aims to energize his support base in Michigan where he faces a tough battle against Harris.