John Bolton defends Trump's comments on MBS, Khashoggi

During a recent business-focused speech before Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, former President Donald Trump acknowledged Elon Musk three times, signaling a reconciliation between the two. This marks a notable shift from their previously strained relationship, suggesting a renewed collaboration in the business sector.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair James Risch (R-Idaho) objected to a request by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) to commemorate slain Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington, calling it 'inappropriate.' Khashoggi, a Virginia resident, was murdered in 2018, and Kaine's request aimed to honor his legacy amid ongoing discussions about human rights and accountability.

Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-Va.), a former member of the National Security Council, has urged President Trump to release the transcript of a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that occurred around the time of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's assassination. Vindman described the call as 'shocking' and emphasized the need for transparency regarding the events surrounding Khashoggi's murder.

The U.S. Commerce Department has approved the sale of up to 70,000 advanced AI chips to two companies based in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. This decision follows discussions between President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflecting a strengthening of economic ties between the nations.

The Senate is progressing on a bill aimed at clarifying oversight of the cryptocurrency industry, with the release of the second half of the draft legislation. However, significant policy questions remain as lawmakers work towards passing the bill early.

Elon Musk and Nvidia have announced a partnership with a Saudi state-backed firm to establish a large-scale AI data center. This development coincides with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington, where the U.S. government appears to have facilitated Saudi Arabia's acquisition of American semiconductors. The collaboration aims to enhance AI capabilities and infrastructure in the region.

A recent incident involving President Donald Trump aboard Air Force One has sparked significant outrage. During a press gaggle, Trump directed an insult at a female reporter, calling her 'piggy' while pointing angrily. This incident has gained traction on social media, contributing to a growing list of controversial remarks made by the president in recent days.

Saad Almadi, a 75-year-old US citizen, has been released by Saudi Arabia after being imprisoned for five months due to critical tweets about the government. His release follows a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and former President Donald Trump, which has been linked to Almadi's case. Initially sentenced to 19 years in prison in 2021, Almadi's charges were later reduced to cyber crimes, resulting in a 30-year travel ban.