Trump Begins Middle East Trip Amid Gaza, Ukraine, South Asia Crises

President Donald Trump embarked on a three-nation Middle East visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, initially aiming to encourage these wealthy Gulf nations to invest billions in the United States. However, his trip has taken on greater significance as he navigates multiple geopolitical crises, including tensions in South Asia, the war in Ukraine, Iran's advancing nuclear program, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Trump confidently claimed the world is safer now than it was weeks or months ago, expressing optimism about resolving these issues and pushing for a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Istanbul to discuss ending the Ukraine war. He even considered detouring to Turkey if his presence could aid the peace process. Meanwhile, Gulf leaders are closely watching how Trump plans to address these complex issues behind closed doors. Despite his optimism, it remains uncertain whether key players like Putin and Zelenskyy will heed his call for dialogue.