Donald Trump asserts that a “strong US role” is needed to guarantee Nile water. The former President has offered to resume mediation efforts regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, aiming to broker a deal between Egypt and Ethiopia.
Trump’s plan focuses on a balanced exchange. He supports Ethiopia’s generation of electricity but insists on “predictable water releases” for Egypt. He argues that a “strong United States role” in coordinating the talks is essential for success.
The dispute over the dam is a matter of survival for Egypt. The country depends on the Nile for nearly all its water. Ethiopia, meanwhile, sees the dam as key to its economic future. The failure to reach an agreement has left the region in a precarious state.
Trump has a long history with this file. He tried to broker a deal during his presidency and has often claimed to have “ended” the conflict. His recent description of the dam as a “big problem” reflects his continued engagement with the topic.
This new initiative seeks to provide the assurances Egypt needs. Trump’s focus on monitoring compliance addresses the core fear of the downstream nation. By offering to coordinate the process, he is trying to build a framework for cooperation.