WASHINGTON, June 21: US President Donald Trump has indicated a significant shift in his position toward artificial intelligence company Anthropic, saying he no longer considers the firm a potential national security concern following its swift compliance with federal directives on advanced AI technologies.
In an interview with “The Axios Show” published on Friday, Trump acknowledged that his perception of the company had changed over the past week. The remarks come amid ongoing discussions between the administration and leading AI developers over access to cutting-edge artificial intelligence systems and the protection of strategic technological assets.
The controversy emerged after the administration directed Anthropic to restrict access to its most advanced AI models, known as Fable 5 and Mythos 5, for foreign nationals. In response, the company suspended access to the models while working with government officials to address compliance requirements.
Asked whether he viewed Anthropic or its chief executive, Dario Amodei, as a threat to US national security, Trump suggested that earlier concerns had eased considerably.
“Not now, but perhaps a week ago,” the President said, highlighting how the company’s actions had influenced the administration’s assessment.
According to Trump, Anthropic reacted promptly to the government’s export-control measures, demonstrating what he described as a responsible approach to a sensitive national issue. The President praised the firm’s willingness to engage with policymakers and adapt its operations in line with security expectations.
Senior technical representatives from Anthropic were scheduled to meet administration officials earlier this week to discuss the implications of the restrictions and explore a path forward. The talks focused on balancing innovation in artificial intelligence with safeguards designed to prevent strategic technologies from reaching unauthorized users abroad.
The issue has gained prominence as governments around the world seek greater oversight of advanced AI systems, particularly those capable of performing sophisticated reasoning, coding, and research functions. Policymakers increasingly view frontier AI models as technologies with potential economic, military, and geopolitical implications.
The matter was also discussed on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit held in France, where Trump and other world leaders met with prominent technology executives to examine emerging challenges and opportunities in artificial intelligence. Among those attending the discussions was Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, whose company has become one of the most influential players in the rapidly evolving AI sector.
Despite signaling a more favorable view of Anthropic, Trump stopped short of ruling out stronger government intervention if circumstances change. During the interview, he noted that the administration retains a broad range of legal authorities to protect national interests, including powers available under the Defense Production Act.
The legislation grants the federal government authority to direct private-sector resources in support of national security objectives during periods of strategic importance. While Trump acknowledged possessing such powers, he suggested that invoking them may not be necessary at this stage.
His comments indicate that the administration currently prefers cooperation and voluntary compliance rather than coercive measures, provided technology companies continue to work closely with regulators on security related concerns.
Anthropic welcomed the President’s remarks and emphasized its commitment to collaboration with US authorities. A company spokesperson said the organization appreciates ongoing engagement with government officials and remains focused on ensuring that advanced AI technologies are developed and deployed responsibly.
The spokesperson added that Anthropic shares the administration’s objectives of protecting critical infrastructure, strengthening technological leadership, and maintaining the United States’ competitive position in the global AI race.
The episode underscores the growing importance of AI governance as governments and industry leaders attempt to establish frameworks that support innovation while addressing security risks. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly central to economic growth and national competitiveness, interactions between policymakers and major AI developers are expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of the technology.
With tensions appearing to ease between the administration and Anthropic, attention is now turning to how future regulations and export-control policies will affect the development and international deployment of advanced AI systems. The outcome of these discussions could influence not only the direction of the American AI industry but also the broader global technology landscape.