Proof of Conspiracy
Key Takeaways
1. The Red Sea Conspiracy: A secret plot to reshape Middle East politics
In late 2015, after Donald Trump has formally announced his candidacy for president, a geopolitical conspiracy emerges overseas whose key participants are the leaders of Russia, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Egypt.
A clandestine alliance forms. In the fall of 2015, George Nader, an adviser to UAE Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed (MBZ), convenes a secret meeting on a yacht in the Red Sea. The attendees include Saudi Arabia's Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), MBZ, Egypt's Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and representatives from Bahrain and Jordan. Their goal: to reshape Middle East politics by:
- Reforming the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to exclude Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman
- Aligning with Israel against Iran
- Supporting Donald Trump's presidential campaign
- Seeking Russian cooperation to counter Iranian influence
This "Red Sea Conspiracy" sets the stage for a dramatic realignment of regional alliances and U.S. foreign policy in the years to come.
2. Trump's inner circle forges covert alliances with foreign powers
Throughout the 2016 campaign, Simes will profoundly influence, from behind the scenes, the four most controversial components of candidate Trump's foreign policy agenda: his stances toward Putin, Russian election interference, the Kremlin's military adventures in Ukraine, and U.S. sanctions against Russia.
A shadow foreign policy emerges. Key figures in Trump's orbit establish unofficial channels with foreign powers:
- Dimitri Simes, a Russia expert, becomes an unofficial adviser to the campaign
- Michael Flynn engages with Russian officials and works on a "Middle East Marshall Plan"
- George Papadopoulos attempts to set up a Trump-Putin meeting
- Paul Manafort shares campaign data with a Russian intelligence-linked individual
These covert connections raise serious questions about foreign influence on the campaign and subsequent administration policies. The Mueller Report later reveals the extent of these undisclosed contacts, highlighting the potential compromise of U.S. interests.
3. Kushner's WhatsApp diplomacy and the rise of Mohammed bin Salman
Beginning in March 2017, Kushner periodically broaches new topics with MBS without informing anyone else in the federal government.
Personal relationships supplant official channels. Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser, develops a close relationship with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), communicating frequently via WhatsApp. This unofficial diplomacy:
- Bypasses traditional State Department and National Security Council channels
- Alarms career diplomats and intelligence officials
- Potentially influences U.S. policy on the Saudi-led blockade of Qatar
- May have played a role in MBS's consolidation of power in Saudi Arabia
Kushner's unorthodox approach raises concerns about conflicts of interest, given his family's business ties in the region, and the potential for foreign manipulation of U.S. foreign policy.
4. The Qatar blockade: Geopolitical chess with billion-dollar consequences
If the [Kushner-HBJ] deal is not entirely dead, that means Jared Kushner is on the one hand pushing to use the power of American diplomacy to pummel a small nation, while on the other his firm is hoping to extract an extraordinary amount of capital from there for a failing investment.
Personal interests intertwine with foreign policy. In June 2017, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Egypt impose a blockade on Qatar, citing its alleged support for terrorism. The blockade's timing and U.S. response raise questions about potential conflicts of interest:
- Kushner Companies had recently sought Qatari investment for their troubled 666 Fifth Avenue property
- Jared Kushner supports the blockade, undermining Secretary of State Tillerson's mediation efforts
- The crisis pushes Qatar closer to Iran and Turkey, complicating U.S. regional strategy
- Questions arise about whether U.S. policy was influenced by personal financial interests
The Qatar blockade episode illustrates the complex interplay between personal relationships, business interests, and foreign policy in the Trump administration.
5. Flynn's Middle East Marshall Plan and nuclear ambitions
Flynn told President Trump's transition team weeks before the [January 2017] inauguration that he was under federal investigation for secretly working as a paid lobbyist for Turkey during the [2016] campaign.
Nuclear ambitions and hidden agendas. Michael Flynn, Trump's first National Security Advisor, pursued a controversial "Middle East Marshall Plan" involving:
- U.S.-Saudi-Russian cooperation on nuclear power in the Middle East
- Potential violation of U.S. laws on nuclear technology transfer
- Continued work on the plan even after Flynn's dismissal from the White House
Key aspects of the plan:
- Involved private companies like IP3 and ACU Strategic Partners
- Required lifting U.S. sanctions on Russia
- Raised concerns among career officials about legality and national security implications
Flynn's undisclosed work for Turkey and his pursuit of this nuclear plan highlight the ethical and security concerns surrounding key figures in the early Trump administration.
6. Israeli tech firms and social media manipulation in the 2016 election
Cambridge Analytica was supposed to be the arsenal of weapons to fight that culture war.
Digital warfare and foreign interference. Israeli tech firms and social media manipulation played a significant role in the 2016 election:
- Cambridge Analytica, linked to Steve Bannon and Robert Mercer, harvested Facebook data for targeted political messaging
- Psy-Group, an Israeli firm, pitched social media manipulation services to the Trump campaign
- These efforts raised questions about foreign interference and the use of personal data in political campaigns
Key players and actions:
- Joel Zamel of Psy-Group met with Donald Trump Jr. at Trump Tower
- George Nader, representing Gulf state interests, facilitated connections
- The extent of these firms' actual involvement remains unclear, but investigations continue
The role of these tech firms highlights the evolving nature of election interference and the challenges in regulating digital campaigning.
7. The Seychelles meeting: Establishing back-channel communications
The United Arab Emirates arranged a secret meeting in January [2017] between Blackwater founder Erik Prince and a Russian close to President Vladimir Putin as part of an apparent effort to establish a back-channel line of communication between Moscow and President-elect Donald Trump.
Covert diplomacy in paradise. In January 2017, a secret meeting takes place in the Seychelles, orchestrated by the UAE:
- Erik Prince, Blackwater founder and informal Trump adviser, meets with Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund
- George Nader, representing the UAE, facilitates the meeting
- The goal: establish unofficial communication between the Trump team and Moscow
Significance:
- Bypassed official diplomatic channels
- Raised questions about the UAE's role in U.S.-Russia relations
- Became a focus of the Mueller investigation
This episode underscores the Trump team's efforts to establish unconventional diplomatic channels and the complex web of international players involved.
8. Trump's inaugural committee: A web of foreign influence and missing millions
In December 2018, the New York Times will reveal that federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York (Manhattan) and Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn) investigating Trump's inaugural fund and a pro-Trump super PAC are focusing "on whether people from Middle Eastern nations—including Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—used straw donors to disguise their donations to the two funds."
Follow the money. Trump's inaugural committee, chaired by Thomas Barrack, raised a record $106.7 million, but questions soon arose about its finances:
- Investigations into potential illegal foreign donations, particularly from Middle Eastern countries
- Concerns about how funds were spent, with $40 million unaccounted for
- Scrutiny of Barrack's connections to Gulf states and potential influence-peddling
Key issues:
- Potential use of straw donors to disguise foreign contributions
- Overpayment for services at Trump-owned properties
- Possible quid pro quo arrangements for access or influence
The inaugural fund controversy highlights the broader concerns about foreign influence and financial impropriety surrounding the Trump administration.
9. Tillerson's downfall and the triumph of personal diplomacy
Tillerson's attempts to mediate the crisis were quickly undercut by Trump and Kushner, who supported the blockade.
Traditional diplomacy sidelined. Rex Tillerson's tenure as Secretary of State was marked by frequent clashes with Trump and Kushner's personal approach to foreign policy:
- Tillerson opposed the Qatar blockade, putting him at odds with Trump and Kushner
- He expressed concern about Kushner's back-channel communications with foreign leaders
- Tillerson's attempts to conduct traditional diplomacy were often undermined by White House actions
Factors in Tillerson's downfall:
- Resistance to Kushner's Middle East initiatives
- Disagreements over Iran policy and the nuclear deal
- Pressure from Gulf allies, particularly the UAE, for his removal
Tillerson's experience illustrates the shift away from traditional diplomatic channels and the ascendance of personal relationships in shaping U.S. foreign policy under Trump.
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FAQ
What's Proof of Conspiracy about?
- Focus on Collusion : Proof of Conspiracy by Seth Abramson investigates the alleged collusion between Donald Trump and foreign powers, particularly focusing on the "Red Sea Conspiracy" involving Russia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Israel, Bahrain, and Egypt.
- Historical Context : The book provides a detailed historical backdrop, tracing events from late 2015 through the 2016 election and beyond, highlighting how these international relationships shaped U.S. foreign policy.
- Evidence and Analysis : Abramson presents extensive evidence, including over 3,350 endnotes, to substantiate his claims about the collusion and its implications for American democracy.
Why should I read Proof of Conspiracy?
- In-depth Investigation : Readers interested in political intrigue and international relations will find Abramson's thorough investigation compelling, as it delves into the intricate web of relationships and motivations.
- Understanding Current Events : The book provides context for understanding contemporary political dynamics, particularly regarding U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
- Critical Perspective : Abramson offers a critical perspective on the events surrounding the Trump administration, encouraging readers to think critically about the intersection of politics, business, and international relations.
What are the key takeaways of Proof of Conspiracy?
- Geopolitical Manipulation : The book illustrates how foreign powers can manipulate U.S. politics for their own ends, raising questions about the integrity of American democracy.
- Corruption and Complicity : Abramson argues that the collusion represents a significant breach of ethical and legal standards, emphasizing the dangers of corruption at the highest levels of government.
- Impact on Foreign Policy : The narrative highlights how the conspiracy has influenced U.S. foreign policy, particularly towards Iran and the Gulf states, reflecting foreign interests over American citizens.
What is the Red Sea Conspiracy in Proof of Conspiracy?
- Origin and Goals : The Red Sea Conspiracy is a geopolitical plot initiated in late 2015, where leaders from several countries convened to ensure Trump's election, aiming to alter U.S. foreign policy to benefit these nations.
- Meeting Details : This meeting took place on a yacht in the Red Sea, symbolizing the clandestine nature of their collaboration.
- Long-term Implications : The conspiracy's implications extend beyond the election, affecting U.S. relations with various countries and shaping the political landscape in the Middle East.
Who are the main players in the Red Sea Conspiracy according to Proof of Conspiracy?
- Key Leaders : The conspiracy involves figures such as Donald Trump, Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Zayed (MBZ) of the UAE, and Vladimir Putin of Russia.
- George Nader's Role : George Nader, an adviser to MBZ, is portrayed as a central figure in orchestrating the meetings and agreements among these leaders.
- International Context : The book also discusses the roles of other nations, including Israel and Egypt, in shaping the conspiracy.
What evidence does Seth Abramson provide in Proof of Conspiracy?
- Extensive Citations : The book includes over 3,350 endnotes and 4,300 individual citations, providing a robust foundation for its claims.
- Interviews and Reports : Abramson draws on interviews, news reports, and official documents to construct a detailed and persuasive narrative.
- Legal and Historical Analysis : The author combines legal analysis with historical context to illustrate the significance of the events discussed.
How does Proof of Conspiracy address the issue of media and journalism?
- Investigative Journalism : Abramson underscores the critical role of investigative journalism in exposing corruption and holding power accountable.
- Khashoggi’s Legacy : The author uses Khashoggi’s murder to discuss the risks journalists face when reporting on powerful figures.
- Media’s Role in Democracy : The book posits that media is essential for informing the public and fostering democratic discourse.
What are the implications of Khashoggi’s murder as discussed in Proof of Conspiracy?
- Symbol of Authoritarianism : Khashoggi’s assassination is portrayed as a symbol of the lengths to which autocratic regimes will go to silence dissent.
- Impact on U.S.-Saudi Relations : The murder has strained U.S.-Saudi relations, raising questions about America’s commitment to human rights.
- Call for Accountability : The author emphasizes the need for accountability in the wake of Khashoggi’s death.
How does Proof of Conspiracy explore the theme of corruption?
- Corruption as a Central Theme : The book delves into corruption at multiple levels, from personal dealings to international relations.
- Personal Gain vs. National Interest : Abramson argues that Trump’s actions often prioritize personal gain over national interest.
- Consequences for Democracy : The author warns that unchecked corruption can have dire consequences for democracy.
What are the best quotes from Proof of Conspiracy and what do they mean?
- Foreign Influence Concerns : "If a foreign country is putting money in the president’s pocket on an ongoing basis, how in the world can we trust that the decisions he makes will be based on the best interests of the United States?" raises ethical questions about political integrity.
- Audacious Plot : "The Red Sea Conspiracy is as audacious a plot as the world has seen in half a century." emphasizes the gravity and complexity of the conspiracy.
- Evidence and Truth : "Proof exists, in a given situation, if there is evidence that helps establish something as true." reflects Abramson's approach to evidence and truth in politics.
How does Proof of Conspiracy connect to current political events?
- Ongoing Investigations : The book's exploration of collusion and foreign influence is relevant in light of ongoing investigations into election interference.
- Impact on U.S. Foreign Policy : Abramson’s analysis provides insight into the current state of U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding relations with Middle Eastern countries.
- Understanding Political Dynamics : The book helps readers understand the complex dynamics of international relations and how they intersect with domestic politics.
Proof of Conspiracy is a meticulously researched book exposing Trump's alleged collusion with Middle Eastern countries and Russia. Readers praise Abramson's thorough analysis and compelling narrative, highlighting the book's importance in understanding current geopolitical events. Critics note the dense writing and occasional repetition but acknowledge the work's significance. The book details a complex web of relationships and deals involving Trump, his administration, and foreign powers, painting a disturbing picture of corruption and self-interest. Many reviewers express shock at the revelations and emphasize the book's relevance to contemporary politics.
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