US clears $3.5 billion missile sale to Saudi ahead of Trump's Middle East visit
While the State Department has cleared the sale, this notification does not confirm the finalization of a contract or the conclusion of negotiations.ALSO READ: Pak minister's X account blocked in India days after 'India will strike' claimThe main contractor for the deal would be RTX Corp (RTX.N), the Pentagon noted.This development comes ahead of President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates from May 13 to 16, his first foreign trip of his second term, excluding a brief visit to Rome for Pope Francis' funeral.Trump has frequently highlighted major commercial and defense agreements with Saudi Arabia, a key US partner in both arms sales and regional diplomacy, particularly in relation to the conflict in Ukraine and relations with Russia.advertisementSaudi Aabia was set to be Trump's first foreign destination since returning to the Oval Office this year, mirroring his first overseas trip in May 2017. However, the recent passing of Pope Francis prompted an earlier visit to Italy and the Vatican.Trump's upcoming visit to the Gulf, covering Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi—highlights the strategic importance of these capitals in US foreign policy. As influential regional powers, they serve as key intermediaries and mediators while also being major investors in the US economy.Tune InMust Watch
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Mint
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AI impersonator pretending to be US Secretary of State Marco Rubio targets three foreign ministers: Report
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Time of India
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H1 car sales see 12% dip; festive rebound expected
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