Book Review: ‘Princes and Thieves,’ by Matthew Cole
The new book by the reporter Matthew Cole connects $2 billion in slush funds from gulf state leaders to Trump’s son-in-law in an effort to influence U.S. policy.
The book "Princes and Thieves" by Matthew Cole sheds light on a concerning web of financial transactions between Gulf state leaders and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law. According to Cole's research, nearly $2 billion in slush funds was funnelled to Kushner, raising questions about potential undue influence on U.S. policy. This revelation is particularly significant given Kushner's role as a senior advisor to the former President.
The alleged transactions detailed in the book highlight the opaque nature of international diplomacy and the blurred lines between personal and public interests. The Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have significant geopolitical and economic interests in the U.S., and Cole's findings suggest that they may have sought to leverage these funds to sway U.S. policy in their favour. As the U.S. continues to navigate complex relationships with these countries, understanding the dynamics at play is crucial.
Looking ahead, readers should watch for potential investigations into these financial transactions and their implications for U.S. foreign policy. Additionally, the book's findings may fuel further scrutiny of Kushner's business dealings and his role in shaping U.S. policy during the Trump administration. As the U.S. government continues to grapple with issues of transparency and accountability, the revelations in "Princes and Thieves" serve as a timely reminder of the need for vigilant oversight and scrutiny of those in positions of power.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. VPNews adds analysis for general news readers.