What A Day

"Things Happen": Trump Goes All In On MBS

10 snips
Nov 19, 2025
Tommy Vietor, a co-host of Pod Save the World and a former U.S. national security communications official, dives into the controversial visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House. They discuss Trump's warm reception despite Khashoggi's murder allegations, emphasizing Trump's prioritization of deals over human rights. Vietor also scrutinizes the ambitious claims of Saudi investments and the risks tied to potential F-35 sales and nuclear technology discussions, advocating for a more balanced U.S. policy toward Saudi Arabia.
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INSIGHT

Trump Minimizes Khashoggi, Backs MBS

  • President Trump openly minimized Jamal Khashoggi's murder by saying, "things happen," and defended MBS despite U.S. intelligence findings.
  • Tommy Vietor notes Trump will side with MBS over U.S. intelligence when it suits his business interests.
INSIGHT

MBS Received Near‑State Visit Treatment

  • Tommy Vietor said MBS received near‑state visit treatment, getting the Oval Office, black‑tie events, and business fanfare.
  • Vietor argues MBS got everything he wanted and more from Trump.
INSIGHT

Business Interests Trump Human Rights

  • Vietor says Trump "does not care" about human rights and will favor MBS if it benefits Trump Organization deals.
  • He suggests the visit signals MBS's rehabilitation since 2018.
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