WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to visit Saudi Arabia in mid-May on what would be his first foreign trip since returning to the White House, according to a report by Axios citing two American officials and a source familiar with the matter. The planned visit highlights the strong ties between the Trump administration and Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas of economic cooperation and investment. According to Axios, preparations for the visit are ongoing as the administration works to revive the ceasefire in Gaza and push for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Trump's first official trip as president in 2017 also took him to Saudi Arabia, underscoring the symbolic and strategic importance Riyadh holds for his administration. In comments made at the White House on March 6, Trump confirmed plans for a Saudi visit within the next six weeks. "I am going to Saudi Arabia. Normally you would go to the UK first. Last time I went to Saudi Arabia," he said. Talks about the visit reportedly took place between senior U.S. and Saudi officials, including during recent discussions on the Ukraine conflict hosted in the Kingdom. A tentative date of April 28 was considered but later postponed, sources told Axios. An official from the Trump administration said the trip is currently being planned. "An opportunity for international travel for the President is something that is being looked at. We don't yet have a specific plan, and we will provide that information when it is official," a White House spokesperson stated. According to the source, the visit will focus on foreign investment, strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia, and efforts to end regional conflicts. Saudi Arabia is currently playing an active role in mediating a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. According to the source, Riyadh is keen for Trump's visit to follow a successful truce between the two sides.
