Dinner with MBS: Oligarchy's Feast

According to the article, a recent report by the Senate Finance Committee details financial transactions between former President Donald Trump and the Saudi Arabian government, revealing significant payments funneled to Trump and his businesses. These transactions, totaling over $2 million, occurred during and after Trump's presidency, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and undue influence. The report focuses on payments made to Trump's hotel, the Trump International Hotel in Washington D.C., and other Trump properties. The Senate committee's findings highlight a pattern of foreign governments, including Saudi Arabia, directing funds towards Trump's businesses. The article suggests this arrangement potentially allows foreign entities to curry favor with Trump. It underscores the ongoing ethical questions surrounding Trump's business dealings and their possible impact on US foreign policy. Beyond the financial aspects, the article suggests a shared ideological alignment between Trump and Saudi leaders, particularly Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. It asserts that Trump and other American oligarchs admired the Saudi regime's authoritarian characteristics. The article posits that Trump's actions, especially following his return to the White House, reflect an ambition to establish a similar form of dictatorship in the United States. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/05/14/byio-m14.html