On his podcast, former Fox News host Tucker Carlson expressed concerns about the timing of the Trump organization’s business activities in the Middle East, suggesting it “seems like corruption,” particularly as the Trump administration revealed new agreements with foreign governments.
During an episode of “The Tucker Carlson Show,” he interviewed ex-Navy Seal Shawn Ryan, asking for his thoughts on the Trump administration’s current actions.
Ryan, hosting his own popular podcast, started by praising President Trump’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiative as well as initiatives from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
However, Ryan critiqued the administration, saying it needs “a lot of work” and, expressing a sense of “lost hope,” highlighted the fraudulent activities linked to Trump’s dealings in the Middle East.
“I honestly might get in trouble for this, but it’s concerning to see all these negotiations in the Middle East – I can’t say when these buildings got approved or when deals were finalized, but new hotels are suddenly popping up in Dubai and Abu Dhabi,” he mentioned.
He remarked, “It feels like these places just finished construction.”
Trump’s business dealings include a recent agreement to build an upscale golf resort in Qatar, in partnership with Qatar Dia, a company supported by the country’s sovereign wealth fund. Additionally, the Trump family is leasing its brand for two new projects in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and is overseeing the development of a Trump Tower in Jeddah and a luxury golf resort in Oman.
Simultaneously, Trump recently visited Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, announcing significant economic and defense agreements, which included lifting prior restrictions on AI chip sales to the region. He also revealed a contract with the UAE to build the largest AI data center outside the US in Abu Dhabi.
“That kind of thing worries me,” Ryan said.
“I mean, that sounds like corruption,” Carlson agreed.
Ryan also noted the divisive nature of American society now, stating, “It’s tough to give constructive feedback without facing backlash.” He mentioned how critical thinking seems to have diminished, with people blindly supporting their groups, saying, “Whatever the tribe says they’re doing.”
“I can get behind all of that,” Carlson responded at the conclusion of Ryan’s comments.
This discussion was highlighted in the media initially.
The White House has addressed worries regarding potential conflicts of interest. When questioned about whether Trump’s trip might overlap with his family’s business interests, spokesperson Caroline Leavitt dismissed the notion, labeling it “silly” and asserting that “President Trump is not acting for his own gain.”
She stated, “The president abides by all conflict of interest laws.”
Administration officials have reassured that decisions made by Trump won’t interfere with his family’s business interests, pointing out that his assets are placed in a trust managed by his children. Furthermore, a voluntary ethical agreement from the Trump organization prohibits direct transactions with foreign governments.
