‘He called me last night’: Trump recalls last phone call with Lindsey Graham before his death | Today’s news
US President Donald Trump has expressed his shock at the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham, revealing that he spoke to the South Carolina Republican just over an hour before her death.
Graham, 71, died of a “short and sudden illness” on Saturday night, according to a statement from his office. No further details about the cause of death have been released.
In an interview with CNN, Trump said there was no indication that anything was amiss during their last conversation.
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Lindsey Graham’s sudden death was attributed to a “short and sudden illness,” his office said, but no further details about the specific illness were provided.
Donald Trump expressed shock at Graham’s death, revealing they had spoken shortly before his death and describing Graham as a “true American patriot” who will be greatly missed.
Before his death, Lindsey Graham had recently returned from Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and discussed US support for Ukraine against Russia.
The speculation arose due to Graham’s recent visit to Ukraine, his vocal stance on sanctions against Russia and unsubstantiated claims suggesting links to foreign threats, particularly from Iran and Russia.
Trump paid tribute to Graham at the Truth Social, saying he was one of the greatest people and senators he knew, and highlighted Graham’s dedication and patriotism.
“Well, it’s devastating. I thought he was fine. He called me last night,” Trump said.
The president said Graham recently returned from Ukraine and seemed upbeat as they discussed his trip and legislative priorities.
“He just came back from the Ukraine and he had a great trip. He told me about the trip. He pushed very, very hard. You probably know he wanted to do the SAVE America Act. He talked about it.”
Trump described the longtime senator as energetic despite fatigue from international travel.
“He was full of energy and vigor. He was tired. He said, ‘I’m tired because it’s been a long journey.’ But other than that he was fine.”
The president said Graham called him around 6:30 p.m., shortly before medical personnel arrived.
“And he called me, I think, just a little while before. Because he called me at about 6:30 or so. And the doctors got there a little later, right after that. What a terrible loss.”
Trump’s truth Social honor
Formerly, Trump confirmed Graham’s death in a post on Truth Socialto pay tribute to one of his closest political allies.
“Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and senators I have ever known is dead! He always worked and was a true American patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND PROVISIONS TO FOLLOW. Sad!”
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Graham’s last visit to Ukraine
Graham was a prominent Republican voice on foreign policy. Just a day before his death, he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kiev after defending continued US support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.
He also urged Trump to take a tougher stance on Iran, arguing that Tehran’s leadership could not be trusted and pushing for military action against the country.
Trump’s support and friendship
The The South Carolina senator sought another term this fall and won Trump’s endorsement earlier this year. In his endorsement, Trump called Graham “a wonderful friend of mine” and praised his loyalty.
Responding to the endorsement in March 2025, Graham highlighted both their political partnership and personal friendship.
“On a professional level, I’m proud to have been at the beginning when President Trump – through sheer force of will – achieved the greatest political comeback in American history.”
He added: “On a personal level, I genuinely enjoy our friendship. He’s an amazing golfing buddy that I’ve yet to beat.”
Graham’s office has not announced funeral arrangements or provided further details about the illness that led to his death.
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