Rubio to Engage in Diplomatic Talks on Ukraine in Saudi Arabia
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is heading to Saudi Arabia to discuss Ukraine, assessing conditions for the potential resumption of U.S. aid frozen by President Trump. Amidst ongoing conflict with Russia, talks will involve President Zelensky and a focus on securing a minerals agreement. Rubio’s visit coincides with Group of Seven discussions in Canada.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to travel to Saudi Arabia on Sunday for discussions regarding Ukraine, as President Donald Trump contemplates whether to lift a suspension on financial aid to the country amid the ongoing conflict. The State Department has confirmed that Rubio’s visit will also include participation in Group of Seven meetings in Canada, marking his status as the highest-ranking official to engage with international discussions following Trump’s return.
During the meetings scheduled from Monday to Wednesday in Jeddah, Rubio aims to promote initiatives that align with the President’s objectives in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, noted State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, while carefully avoiding the phrase “Russian invasion.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to attend these talks alongside Steve Witkoff, a confidant and envoy of Trump. Following a significant setback in a meeting on February 28, where Trump suspended military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, tensions have arisen. It was reported that Zelensky did not execute a crucial agreement during his visit, which included concessions over Ukraine’s mineral resources.
However, Zelensky has recently indicated a willingness to finalize the minerals agreement and has sent a letter of reconciliation to Trump, who presented its contents during a congressional address. Keith Kellogg, the U.S. special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, expressed support for resuming aid, contingent upon Zelensky’s agreement to the minerals deal, ultimately leaving the final decision to Trump.
Sources from NBC News indicate that Trump may seek further concessions from Zelensky beyond the minerals deal prior to reinstating any assistance. European leaders, concerned about the implications of U.S. aid cuts, are scrambling to address these deficiencies, yet Zelensky himself acknowledged the irreplaceable nature of U.S. security guarantees in a potential agreement with Russia.
In the context of ongoing hostilities, Russia continues its offensive against Ukraine, specifically targeting its energy infrastructure. In his recent statements, Trump has threatened to intensify sanctions on Russia if it fails to negotiate. Rubio previously met with his Russian counterpart, signaling a resumption of high-level connections since the Biden administration. This engagement took place in Saudi Arabia, a nation that has emerged as a pivotal diplomatic ally under Trump.
In Jeddah, Rubio is also scheduled to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump’s strategic focus will likely include persuading Saudi Arabia to formally recognize Israel, a complex issue further complicated by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and one which Witkoff is prioritizing during his diplomatic tour.
Following the talks, Rubio will proceed to Quebec, Canada, to join a Group of Seven foreign ministers’ meeting to advance U.S. interests in global peace, security, strategic cooperation, and stability. While the tensions with Canada have been previously highlighted by Trump, his recent diplomatic maneuvers may indicate a partial de-escalation regarding tariff disputes due to economic fluctuations.
In conclusion, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s planned visit to Saudi Arabia aims to facilitate discussions regarding Ukraine and advance President Trump’s strategic goals in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The diplomatic interactions planned, including meetings with Zelensky and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscore the complexities of international relations amidst U.S. aid considerations. Moreover, the implications of potential agreements regarding mineral resources could play a significant role in determining future assistance to Ukraine. As the situation evolves, the U.S. continues to navigate its position in global diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
