Trump praises Saudi Arabia for hosting U.S.-Russia talks, lashes Zelenskyy at Miami Investment Summit
President Donald Trump gestures at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute summit in Miami Beach, Fla., Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for facilitating discussions between Washington and Moscow last week, calling the Kingdom “a special place with special leaders.”
Speaking at the opening of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute conference in Miami, Trump described it as “a tremendous honor” to be the first American president to address the forum.
Acknowledging Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s role in the talks, Trump stated, “We have to thank [Crown] Prince Mohammed bin Salman for hosting these historic talks that went very, very well.”
Trump also reiterated his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, despite asserting his support for Ukraine. He accused Zelenskyy of “doing a terrible job,” adding, “His country is shattered, and millions and millions of people have unnecessarily died.” Trump said he hopes for a ceasefire soon to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The FII conference, running from Wednesday to Friday in Miami, serves as a global platform for investors, policymakers, and business leaders to explore economic opportunities.
Initially launched in 2017, the initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to reduce its economic reliance on oil by fostering international collaborations.
