'Nobody told me if I was right or wrong': Donald Trump explains the correct way to say 'Qatar'

Donald Trump, who critics say has a very distinct speaking style has offered clarification on the way he pronounces 'Qatar'. Speaking about a potential visit to the Gulf nation, the president admitted he had long called it “Cut-R” before realising the proper pronunciation. “Nobody’s ever told me right or wrong,” he remarked. “I always like to say ‘Cut-R.’ But it’s Qatar.” His candid admission adds to a long list of offbeat remarks that have defined his public speaking style.

"We'll probably stop at UAE and Qatar -- as I used to call it 'Cut-R' -- nobody has ever told me right or wrong. I always like to say 'Cut-R.' But it's Qatar," Trump said.

This isn't the first time President Trump has jested about the pronunciation of foreign countries. In 2016, during a foreign policy speech, he pronounced Tanzania as "Tan-ZAY-nee-uh," diverging from the standard "Tan-zuh-NEE-uh." The mispronunciation drew attention, with White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest quipping, "Apparently the phonetics are not included on the teleprompter."

In 2017, during a Republican National Committee event, Trump mocked the pronunciation of Qatar, stating, "We're having a dispute with Qatar—we're supposed to say Qatar. It's Qatar, they prefer." He then added, "I prefer that they don't fund terrorism."

Beyond pronunciations, President Trump has a history of linguistic gaffes. One of the most notable instances occurred in May 2017 when he tweeted, "Despite the constant negative press covfefe." The term "covfefe" quickly became an internet sensation, with widespread speculation about its intended meaning.

Trump: "We'll probably stop at UAE and Qatar -- as I used to call it 'cut-R' -- nobody has ever told me right or wrong. I always like to say 'cut-R.' But it's Qatar." pic.twitter.com/jsajxUkQOw

— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 31, 2025

Trump’s remark comes as he prepares to outline his plans for tariffs and international trade policies. The president has been vocal about what he sees as unfair trade practices that disadvantage the United States. He has pushed for tariffs that would match what other countries impose on American products, arguing that foreign governments have long benefited from higher duties on US goods while American consumers pay lower tariffs in return.

Trump has consistently challenged traditional trade agreements, arguing they have harmed American businesses. He introduced tariffs on foreign steel, aluminium, and goods from China during his first term and has continued to advocate for protectionist policies. His proposed "reciprocal tariffs" would see the US imposing the same duties that other nations levy on American exports.

The president’s stance has been met with mixed reactions. While some economists argue his tariffs could pressure other nations to lower their own trade barriers, others warn that such moves could disrupt global supply chains and lead to higher prices for American consumers. Trump remains undeterred, insisting that his policies are designed to "liberate" the US economy from dependence on foreign goods.