The United States has approved a $3.5 billion sale of missiles to Saudi Arabia, ahead of President Donald Trump’s visit to the Gulf region later this month. Trump is set to meet the heads of state of six Gulf countries in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of his trip from May 13 to 16.
“Trump will meet the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Riyadh,” a source close to the Saudi government confirmed. The meeting aims to reinforce “political and economic cooperation” between the US and the GCC countries, which include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman.
The source, who requested anonymity, added that Trump’s visit will focus on strengthening ties with the Gulf nations. The US President has previously boasted of securing major commercial deals from Saudi Arabia, a key player in the region. Saudi Arabia has also served as a crucial go-between for US diplomacy on Russia and Ukraine.
The missile sale and upcoming visit come as the US and Iran have begun indirect negotiations on Tehran’s nuclear programme. The region remains a focal point of international attention, with the US seeking to maintain its influence and secure its interests. Trump’s trip to the region is expected to further solidify US-Gulf relations, building on existing partnerships and potentially paving the way for new agreements.
The visit will be the first foreign trip of Trump’s second term, excluding a brief visit to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis. As the US continues to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, Trump’s meetings with Gulf leaders are likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of US-Gulf relations.