General

Trump defends Saudi crown prince over Khashoggi killing, threatens ABC News in White House meeting – as it happened

In a recent White House visit, former President Donald Trump appeared to downplay the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi while meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This encounter has reignited discussions surrounding the complex relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia, particularly in light of Khashoggi’s brutal killing in 2018, which has been widely attributed to the Saudi government. Trump’s nonchalant stance on the issue raises eyebrows, especially given the ongoing scrutiny over the Crown Prince’s human rights record and the implications for U.S. foreign policy.

The backdrop to this meeting is particularly noteworthy, as Trump’s family has vested interests in Saudi Arabia. Recently, London-based developer Dar Global announced plans to launch Trump Plaza in Jeddah, marking the second collaboration between Dar Global and the Trump Organization in the kingdom. The first project, Trump Tower Jeddah, was unveiled last year, further solidifying the Trump family’s business ties to the region. These developments suggest a deepening of ties that may influence Trump’s public statements and policies regarding Saudi Arabia, despite the troubling history surrounding its leadership. This intersection of business interests and foreign relations highlights the complexities of modern diplomacy, where personal and financial stakes can shape national policy.

As discussions about human rights and accountability continue to evolve, Trump’s approach during this visit underscores the ongoing tension between economic interests and ethical considerations in international relations. With the Trump Organization’s growing footprint in Saudi Arabia, observers are left questioning how these business ventures might affect U.S. diplomatic strategies in the Middle East and beyond.