Trump, Musk Join Saudi Visit Featuring $1 Trillion Investment, Defense Deal

Elon Musk accompanied President Donald Trump on his inaugural visit to Saudi Arabia, where they met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other leading business figures at the Royal Court. Musk, serving as a top adviser to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), was introduced by Trump to the crown prince, and participated in discussions alongside prominent CEOs from major corporations. The visit marked Trump's first major foreign trip of his second term, during which he announced over $1 trillion in investments and a $142 billion defense agreement with Saudi Arabia. Despite Musk's close proximity to Trump and his role in government, observers note that his influence on Trump may be waning, particularly on trade issues. A body language expert analyzed a viral video of Musk and Trump’s handshake, interpreting Trump's dominant gestures as a display of power and approval, with implications for their relationship and interactions with the Saudi leadership. The trip also highlighted Trump's efforts to engage with key economic and geopolitical challenges, including negotiations with Iran and addressing oil prices.