The annual Bilderberg Meeting began Thursday in Sweden, providing a private forum for influential leaders to discuss global issues amid strained U.S.-Europe relations under Donald Trump.

Founded in 1954 to strengthen transatlantic ties, the event is closed to media, fueling conspiracy theories.

This year’s topics include Ukraine, AI, and critical raw materials, with notable attendees like NATO chief Mark Rutte and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, AOL.com has reported.

While the meeting’s secrecy is intended to encourage open dialogue, experts say its true influence is unclear and often overstated.

Written by B.C. Begley