Reports indicate that former U.S. President Donald Trump, known for his close ties with Saudi Arabia during his first term, has chosen the kingdom for his first overseas trip if he secures a second term. The visit is expected to take place in mid-May.
On Sunday, Axios reported that two U.S. government officials confirmed the trip. Earlier this month, Trump announced his plans to visit Saudi Arabia in April to sign an investment agreement.
Unlike most U.S. presidents, who traditionally make their first international stop in the United Kingdom, Trump chose Saudi Arabia at the start of his first term in January 2017. During that visit, Saudi Arabia pledged substantial investments in the U.S.
A government official revealed that Trump initially planned to travel on April 28, which has since been postponed. The official added that he now intends to visit in mid-May.
During his first administration, Trump sought to establish a pro-U.S. belt in the Middle East, centering on Saudi Arabia and Israel. In his second administration, he continued this cooperation by hosting Ukraine peace negotiations in Saudi Arabia.
Following his second inauguration this past January, he held his first call with a foreign leader, speaking with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
During his upcoming visit, he is expected to discuss the situation in Gaza and explore investment opportunities. Saudi Arabia, which pursued diplomatic ties with Israel through Trump’s mediation, has stated that normalization remains impossible as long as Israel continues military operations in Gaza.
