US senators move to block Trump’s arms deals with UAE and Qatar

Friday 16 May 2025 - 10:03

By: Zahouani Ilham

US senators move to block Trump’s arms deals with UAE and Qatar

A group of US senators is attempting to stop $3.5 billion in arms sales to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar amid allegations that these deals could personally benefit President Donald Trump’s family.

On Thursday, Democratic Senators Chris Murphy, Chris Van Hollen, Brian Schatz, Tim Kaine, and independent Senator Bernie Sanders introduced two “resolutions of disapproval” to challenge these sales. They also accused President Trump, who is finishing a Middle East trip, of corrupting US foreign policy by the timing of these arms and investment agreements.

The State Department recently approved a $1.6 billion sale to the UAE, including Chinook helicopters, F-16 aircraft parts, and repair equipment for various helicopters. There is also a pending $1.9 billion deal with Qatar for MQ-9B Predator drones, authorized in March.

Senators argue Trump accepted favors tied to these agreements, highlighting reports that Emirati firm MGX plans to finance a $2 billion investment through a stablecoin linked to the Trump-backed World Liberty Financial. The Trump family reportedly earned millions from niche cryptocurrencies like the $TRUMP meme coin after Trump’s return to office.

Beyond financial concerns, senators warn that US weapons could end up with Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, allegedly supported by the UAE and involved in Sudan’s civil conflict.

Additionally, Qatar’s offer of a Boeing 747 for Trump’s temporary use as Air Force One has raised criticism from both parties for potentially being the most expensive foreign gift to a US official.

Trump defended the aircraft offer, calling it a gift to the Department of Defense and criticized Boeing’s delay in producing a new Air Force One.

The timing of a Senate vote on the resolutions is uncertain, but Democrats are expected to push the measures to the floor for debate.