🔗 Share this article

Ex-President Trump appeared to shrug off the assassination of columnist Jamal Khashoggi, calling him an "extremely controversial" individual who was not well-liked.

White House Meeting alongside Saudi Leader

The statements were made during a presidential meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, marking his inaugural appearance after the columnist's killing abroad.

US intelligence determined that the Saudi leader had ordered the operation, yet Trump insisted that he "was unaware" of the incident.

Trump's Reply to Journalist's Inquiry

Donald Trump additionally attacked the reporter who asked about the matter, implying that the media outlet should lose its broadcasting rights.

"Numerous folks disliked that man you are referring to," Trump remarked. "Regardless of your opinion, things occurred, yet he knew nothing."

The Saudi leader responded, "It's painful and it's a huge mistake, and we are doing our best to stop it from happening again."

Economic Agreements and Defense Sales

The talks additionally showcased promised Saudi Arabian spending in the US, initially billed at six hundred billion dollars, however potentially expanded to one trillion dollars.

The former president confirmed his plan to sell advanced F-35 planes to the Saudis, notwithstanding concerns from the Israeli government and intelligence communities.

The two men additionally revealed discussions on a potential deal for the kingdom to normalize relations with Israel in exchange for a Palestinian state.

Middle Eastern Issues and Challenges

The proposed F-35 transaction has raised concern in Israel, which currently possesses the stealth fighter in the Middle East.

American spy agencies are apprehensive due to Saudi Arabia's extensive military cooperation with Beijing, highlighting concerns over security breaches.

However, the former president insisted that Saudi Arabia should receive equivalent top-level aircraft as Tel Aviv, pointing to their status as "reliable friends" of the United States.

Additional Deals

Alongside military transactions, American authorities stated hopes of multibillion-dollar Saudi investment in the United States' AI sector, along with enhanced collaboration in civil nuclear power initiatives.

"We confirm that we are increasing that $600 billion to almost one trillion," the Saudi leader announced.

Diplomatic Complications

The Trump team is also seeking an atomic and defense cooperation agreement with the kingdom, that the Biden administration previously pursued without success to secure.

But, current developments, including the October assault and subsequent bombardment in Gaza, have complicated the chances of such a deal.

"Post-October 7, in my view the cost for the kingdom to sign up to diplomatic ties with Israel has increased substantially," a one-time US Middle East negotiator commented.

Future Talks

"We want to be part the Abraham Accords, yet we also want to secure a clear path toward Palestinian statehood," Prince Mohammed stated.

Trump echoed, noting, "We held an excellent conversation regarding normalization. We discussed about various options."

"We talked about many topics in a short time. We will continue more details," Trump continued. "Yet, in my view you have a very good feeling regarding normalization."

Criticism Regarding Financial Ties

The meeting additionally controversial due to possible connections involving Trump's relatives private business interests and Middle Eastern nations.

The former president dismissed any ethical concerns, stating he has "withdrawn from his business empire" while dedicated "100% of his energy" to his role.

"I have no involvement with my family's enterprises," he stated. "What my family does is acceptable. They operate globally. Their activities are limited in the kingdom, in fact. I'm sure opportunities exist. Whatever they have undertaken has been very good."