Marco Rubio’s Diplomatic Mission to Saudi Arabia on Ukraine Aid Talks

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is traveling to Saudi Arabia for discussions on Ukraine amid President Trump’s considerations to lift an aid freeze. Meetings will focus on ending the Russia-Ukraine war, with Zelensky and adviser Witkoff attending. Previous aid suspensions stemmed from tensions post a February meeting with Trump, who seeks mineral deal concessions from Zelensky.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia for discussions regarding Ukraine amidst President Donald Trump’s contemplation of lifting an aid freeze to the nation. The State Department confirmed his participation in Group of Seven talks in Canada, marking his position as the senior-most official to visit since Trump returned.

The discussions in Jeddah, spanning from Monday to Wednesday, will focus on advancing the President’s objectives to terminate the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as stated by State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce. This dialogue will notably avoid earlier characterizations of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced his attendance in Jeddah, along with Trump’s trustful aide, Steve Witkoff. Amidst past tensions after Trump suspended aid following a meeting with Zelensky, both leaders have recently indicated readiness to negotiate, including a minerals deal proposed by Trump.

Keith Kellogg, U.S. special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, expressed support for the resumption of assistance contingent upon Zelensky signing the proposed deal, emphasizing that the final decision rests with President Trump. Reports suggest Trump may seek broader concessions from Zelensky beyond the minerals deal.

European leaders are striving to compensate for the lack of American support, yet Zelensky highlights that U.S. security guarantees are irreplaceable in any agreement with Russia. Meanwhile, Russia continues its aggressive actions against Ukraine, affecting critical energy infrastructures.

Rubio’s prior engagements with his Russian counterpart in Saudi Arabia highlighted potential economic partnerships post-conflict. His upcoming meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also signals renewed diplomatic relations.

Furthermore, during the Quebec meeting of Group of Seven foreign ministers, Rubio aims to enhance U.S. interests in global stability despite ongoing tensions with Canada regarding trade issues, affected by Trump’s recent tariff actions.

In conclusion, Secretary Rubio’s upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia encompasses key discussions on the Russia-Ukraine war, highlighting the strained dynamics of U.S. foreign policy under President Trump. His meetings with significant figures aim to navigate potential pathways toward resuming aid to Ukraine, contingent on agreement concessions from Zelensky, while addressing broader geopolitical interests including relations with Saudi Arabia and Israel.

Original Source: www.france24.com