TRUMP BEGINS MIDEAST TOUR WITH SAUDI TALKS ON IRAN, OIL, AND INVESTMENTS

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 13TH MAY 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com

President Donald Trump has begun a four-day Middle East trip with high-stakes meetings in Saudi Arabia. His first stop is with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, resolving the Gaza conflict, and maintaining low oil prices. A formal dinner and Gulf Cooperation Council gathering will follow. Trump values cheap oil as key to controlling inflation and countering Russia's war in Ukraine. Yet, with Brent crude at $64.77 a barrel, Saudi Arabia—relying on prices near $96 to balance its budget—may struggle to sustain high production.

Trump's itinerary includes Qatar and the UAE, where his sons’ Trump Organization has real estate projects. Critics question the ethics of such overlaps. Still, Trump is expected to announce deals on AI, energy, and arms sales, including a $3.5 billion missile package for Saudi Arabia. The trip also serves to reinforce his transactional foreign policy amidst growing Democratic opposition.