From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Saudis embrace Trump, fete shared interests ahead of arrival
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American and Saudi flags are lining the streets in Saudi Arabia’s capital ahead of US President Donald Trump’s arrival, along with a noticeable security presence in Riyadh of all American-made police cars.
At a “Media Oasis” set up for journalists, giant video screens show off Saudi construction projects like its futuristic NEOM city and its hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup. A mobile McDonald’s sits in the parking lot, still shuttered.
Saudi Arabia’s tightly controlled media is joining in the charm offensive, describing the visit as part of a strategic reset in American-Saudi relations, which date back to when then-President Franklin Roosevelt met King Saud aboard the USS Quincy in 1945.
“Many countries around the world, including in Europe, are following Saudi Arabia’s lead in managing their affairs with Trump,” writes Abdulrahman al-Rashed in Asharq Al-Awsat. “The era of relying solely on political and military alliances with Washington is over; the focus now is on forging shared interests.”
Faisal J. Abbas writes in the English-language Arab News newspaper that “the significance of the visit cannot be overstated — nor could its timing be more crucial,” given Saudi Arabia’s mediation in the Russia-Ukraine war and the recent conflict between India and Pakistan.
He also acknowledges business deals that will be a centerpiece of the trip.
“Putting America first does not mean ignoring opportunities abroad; it means seizing them,” Abbas writes.
Prince Turki al-Faisal, who led Saudi intelligence for more than two decades and served as ambassador to the US and Britain, addresses Trump in the same paper, writing that “our doors and hearts are open to you.”
The Times of Israel Community.