US President Donald Trump has insisted he is “not joking” about seeking a third term in office.

A third term in office is barred by the US Constitution.

But speaking in a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, Trump directly addressed speculation over a potential third term.

He said: “No, I’m not joking. I’m not joking,” but added, “It is far too early to think about it.”

“There are methods which you could do it, as you know,” he said.

Trump however did not elaborate on potential legal or political avenues.

The US Constitution’s 22nd Amendment limits presidents to two four-year terms, whether consecutive or not.

The 22nd Amendment says “no person shall be elected to the office of the president more than twice”.

Trump was asked in the NBC interview about a scenario where his running mate, Vice President JD Vance, could assume office before stepping aside to allow him to take over. Trump acknowledged the possibility, stating, “That’s one” approach.

“But there are others, too,” he added.

I’m not joking about third term as US president – Trump