WASHINGTON — The White House confirmed on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump will visit Saudi Arabia in May, clarifying his earlier remarks about a “next month” trip to the Middle East.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt made the announcement during a press briefing, saying, “The president will be heading to Saudi Arabia in May. As for specific dates and details, we will be reading those out to you as soon as we possibly can.”

When asked whether ceasefires in Ukraine and Gaza would be prerequisites for the trip, Leavitt said the US continues to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine but did not offer the same assurance for Gaza.

Trump had made the initial remarks about his travel plans on March 31, during an appearance in Florida, noting his intention to visit Saudi Arabia and other regional allies “next month.”

The trip will mark Trump’s first foreign visit since returning to office in January. — Agencies