Washington — President Trump announced on Monday that the United States would proceed with the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This announcement comes a day before a scheduled meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House.
During a press interaction in the Oval Office, President Trump confirmed the sale, stating, “I will say that we will be doing that, we’ll be selling F-35s, yeah.” He emphasized that the Saudis have expressed a desire to purchase the jets and referred to them as “a great ally.” The president aims to solidify significant business and national security agreements with Saudi Arabia during the crown prince’s visit.
Meeting Details
The meeting between President Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is expected to include discussions in the Oval Office, followed by a lunch. This visit is part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia, a critical partner in both security and business within a volatile Middle East region. Trump and his son-in-law Jared Kushner have developed close relationships with the Saudis, particularly with the crown prince.
Additionally, the White House is hosting a black-tie dinner for the crown prince on Tuesday evening, although it will not be formally designated as a state dinner.
