Trump uses CEOs to enhance his global image during Middle East trip

In recent days, President Donald Trump concluded a Middle East tour, accompanied by many leading American business executives. This tour included stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, showcasing American interests abroad. CEOs from major corporations like Apple and Amazon travelled with Trump on private jets, emphasizing their relationship with the administration. However, this engagement did not fully shield them from Trump's anger over business practices, particularly in the context of tariffs and international operations. While some executives hoped that direct contact with Trump would increase their influence over policies affecting their companies, the results were mixed. An example is JP Morgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, who effectively influenced tariff decisions after making public statements that resonated with Trump. His appearance on Fox Business Network led to a reduction in tariffs as Trump sought solutions amid market concerns. The complexity of engaging with Trump was evident, as business leaders often felt unsure about how to best communicate their needs to the administration. As American CEOs navigated their relationships with the president, the toeing of the line became apparent in their interactions. Efforts by leaders like Bernard Arnault of LVMH were sometimes met with praise, but not always protective against potential backlash from Trump. Key executives expressed a sense of obligation to maintain contact with the president's team, reflecting the urgency and importance of their industries in a politically charged environment. Despite this dependence, CEOs were well aware that favoring the president did not guarantee influence Ultimately, the possibility that executive engagement would protect them from Trump's erratic behavior loomed large. The mixed outcomes of these high-profile meetings revealed the unpredictable nature of political and business relations. As Trump's administration continued to unfold, the implications for how businesses functioned and strategized became increasingly complicated, revealing an intricate web of influence and response within the world's largest economy.