“He didn't think he'd have to kiss my ass.” Trump, trivial message to Saudi heir Mohammed bin Salman

US President Donald Trump invoked Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) in a speech held in Miami on Friday at the FII Priority Investment Forum organized by Saudi Arabia. The statements were made in front of investors, and the tone alternated between eulogy and irony.

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Trump began by describing MBS as a “great man”with whom he has “bonded” over the years, while recalling a recent private meeting:

“He has a little time, he grabbed me and said 'you know, it's unbelievable. A year ago you were a dead country. Now you're the most important country in the world'. He didn't think this would happen, he didn't think he'd have to kiss my ass ('kissing my ass')”. the US president said, drawing laughter from the room.

Trump went on to point out that MBS seemed to have expected a different relationship with the United States.

“He thought he was dealing with another failed American president, with a declining country, but now he has to be nice to me. Tell him”the head of state added.

The statements come in a tense context. Saudi Arabia has in recent weeks called for the continuation of military offensives against Iran, and the bilateral relationship with the United States is closely monitored by investors and leaders in the Middle East.

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However, the relationship between Trump and the crown prince appeared to have been good previously. In November 2025, Trump hosted a lavish dinner in Washington during MBS's visit to the United States, suggesting a close personal bond between the two leaders.