Donald Trump insists that a “successful approach” to the Nile dispute is possible. The former President has offered to mediate the conflict between Egypt and Ethiopia, aiming to find a solution to the standoff over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Trump’s “successful approach” hinges on a dual guarantee. He supports Ethiopia’s generation of “substantial amounts of electricity” but insists on “predictable water releases” for Egypt. He believes that with strong U.S. coordination, these competing needs can be reconciled.
The dam has been a source of tension since construction began. It sits on the Blue Nile, the main tributary of the river that sustains Egypt. Cairo views the project as a threat to national security, while Addis Ababa views it as a national triumph.
Trump has often spoken about the dispute, claiming to have “resolved” it during his presidency. However, the lack of a signed treaty means the fundamental issues remain. His recent comments describing the dam as a “big problem” indicate he is still focused on the region.
By offering to monitor the agreement, Trump is attempting to bridge the trust gap. His proposal aims to provide the objective verification needed to ensure that both sides adhere to the terms of any deal. It is a practical attempt to solve a complex problem.