Trump Offers U.S. Mediation on Nile Dam, Warns of Military Risk

U.S. President Donald Trump has offered to restart American-led talks between Egypt and Ethiopia over a major new dam on the Nile River. In a letter, he warned the dispute could lead to military confrontation. The conflict centers on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Ethiopia is building the dam to generate electricity, but Egypt fears it will severely reduce its share of Nile waters. President Trump described Egypt's concerns as "truly understandable." He said resolving the issue was a top priority. The U.S. offer to mediate was sent in a letter to Egypt's president. Copies were also sent to Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia. Previous U.S.-led talks between the three nations stalled earlier this year. The new offer comes as Ethiopia begins to fill the dam's reservoir.