US–Kuwait Partnership Is Thriving, Says Charge d’Affaires

The United States’ relationship with Kuwait is not only strong but “thriving,” deep-rooted, and strategically vital for both nations, Steven Butler, US Charge d’Affaires to Kuwait, said during a wide-ranging media interaction held at the US Embassy in Kuwait.

Opening the discussion, Butler emphasized that the partnership between the two countries spans more than six decades and is built on shared interests in security, economic growth, regional stability, and enduring people-to-people ties.

“Our relationship with Kuwait isn’t just strong, it’s thriving, It’s deep, it’s durable, and it matters to both of our countries,” he said.

A Trusted Ally in a Volatile Region

Highlighting Kuwait’s role as a key regional partner, the Charge d’Affaires reiterated Washington’s unwavering commitment to Kuwait’s security and sovereignty.

“Kuwait is a trusted ally, and the United States remains fully committed to Kuwait’s security and to stability in this region,” he noted. He added that Kuwait continues to play a constructive and increasingly visible role in shaping regional peace and security, particularly at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

Butler also welcomed Kuwait’s recent decision to join the Board of Peace as a founding member, describing it as an important international initiative aimed at translating diplomatic breakthroughs into lasting peace and prosperity.

Defense Cooperation at the Core

Defense and security cooperation, he stressed, remains a cornerstone of US–Kuwait relations. The two countries continue to work closely to deter threats, prevent conflict, and ensure long-term regional stability.

“Together, we’re working to deter threats, prevent conflict, and keep this region safer and more secure,” he said.

Kuwait, a Major Non-NATO Ally of the United States, was described as a champion of interoperability, with joint military exercises, operational coordination, and shared planning forming the backbone of a defense partnership forged over the past 35 years.

“No single country in the Gulf can do this alone, and the US can’t do it alone either. Collective defense and interoperability are essential,” he explained.

While declining to comment on specific defense procurement announcements, Butler confirmed that the United States has already provided billions of dollars’ worth of defense support, noting that any new agreements or deals would be announced by the Kuwaiti government when appropriate.

Iran, Regional Tensions, and Diplomacy

Responding to questions about heightened regional tensions and Iran, the Charge d’Affaires said the United States remains firmly committed to diplomacy while maintaining strong defensive coordination with its regional partners.

President Trump, he noted, has consistently urged Iran to come to the table to negotiate a fair and equitable agreement and has been clear that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon.

Butler confirmed that indirect talks with Iran were recently held in Muscat, and assured regional partners that the US Embassy remains deeply engaged with Kuwait and Gulf allies on security-related issues.

While declining to discuss operational or security details, he referenced the US response to last year’s attack on Doha, saying a similar response could be expected should such a situation arise again.

Maritime Security and the Gulf

On maritime security and recent advisories urging ships to avoid Iranian waters, the Charge d’Affaires said such guidance reflects longstanding concerns over the harassment and seizure of commercial vessels in the Gulf.

“Protecting secure shipping and freedom of navigation is essential for global commerce and free trade,” he said.

He added that coordination with Gulf partners is ongoing through US naval operations headquartered in Bahrain, emphasizing that maritime security remains a shared responsibility.

Growing Economic Partnership

Beyond security, the Charge d’Affaires highlighted the rapid growth of economic ties, with approximately $5 billion in annual two-way trade between the United States and Kuwait.

American companies continue to bring world-class expertise and advanced technology to Kuwait, while Kuwaiti investors play an increasingly important role in the US economy.

From energy giants such as Halliburton and Schlumberger to technology leaders including Microsoft and Google, US firms are deeply embedded in Kuwait’s economic  transformation, particularly in areas such as data infrastructure and artificial intelligence.

“The future is data,” he said. “American companies are delivering cutting-edge solutions, and they will always compete on a transparent, level playing field.”

Business Environment and Dispute Resolution

Asked about concerns surrounding challenges faced by US companies operating in Kuwait, the Charge d’Affaires said assisting American businesses is a core function of the embassy.

“Disputes happen in every country,” he said. “Our role is to help promote dialogue and work toward fair solutions when issues arise.” He stressed that such matters are handled with confidentiality and form part of the embassy’s daily engagement with both American firms and Kuwaiti authorities.

People-to-People Ties and Student Exchange

The Charge d’Affaires underscored the importance of people-to-people connections, noting that thousands of Kuwaiti students study in the United States each year. “These connections last for generations,” he said, describing education as one of the most enduring pillars of the bilateral relationship.

Visa Processing and Public Concerns

Responding to concerns about longer visa processing times, particularly for students and medical travelers, Butler said enhanced security guidelines  many of which have existed for years have required additional scrutiny in some cases.

“This administration has put an emphasis on knowing who is coming into the country,” he said. He stressed, however, that the vast majority of visa applications are processed quickly, and confirmed that expedited appointments are available for emergency medical cases through the embassy’s consular section.

He also clarified that the recent pause in immigrant visa processing does not affect non-immigrant visas, including tourist, student, business, and medical visas.

Visa Guidance for FIFA Fans Planning to Travel to the United States

With the upcoming FIFA World Cup generating excitement among football fans across the region, the US Charge d’Affaires also addressed concerns about visa timelines and travel planning for supporters hoping to attend matches in the United States.

He urged fans to apply early and not wait until the last minute, noting that demand for visas is expected to increase significantly as the tournament approaches. Acknowledging the global scale of the event, he confirmed that the US government is allocating additional consular resources worldwide to handle the expected surge in applications linked to the World Cup.

The Charge d’Affaires summed up his advice succinctly: “Apply early, plan smart.” With early preparation and timely applications, he said football supporters from Kuwait should be able to enjoy the tournament without unnecessary stress.

Addressing questions about the appointment of a new US ambassador to Kuwait, the Charge d’Affaires clarified that the previously announced nominee is no longer under consideration.

Concluding the discussion, the Charge d’Affaires described US–Kuwait relations as steady, resilient, and constantly active  even when progress is not immediately visible.

“There’s an old saying: still waters run deep,” he said. “That’s how I’d describe this relationship.” With strong defense cooperation, expanding economic ties, and deep people-to-people connections, he said the goal remains simple: delivering tangible benefits for both Americans and Kuwaitis while advancing peace and stability in the region.