U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting Saudi Arabia to discuss Ukraine and gauge potential shifts in U.S. aid policy amid Trump’s considerations. Key issues include potential agreements involving mineral wealth and strategies to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with significant talks anticipated amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions regarding Ukraine, amidst President Donald Trump’s contemplation of potentially unfreezing aid to the country. Notably, this visit marks Rubio as the highest-ranking official to engage in diplomatic talks since Trump’s return to power, particularly following an ongoing trade conflict with Canada, which he has openly criticized.
Rubio’s discussions in Jeddah, from Monday to Wednesday, will focus on strategies to advance the president’s objective of resolving the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce emphasized that the talks are intended to promote dialogue, sidestepping previously common terminology referring to the situation as a Russian invasion.
In attendance will be Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, who will also participate in these discussions. Tensions arose after Trump halted aid and intelligence provisions to Ukraine subsequent to an unfavorable meeting with Zelensky, where an agreement for Ukraine to transfer its mineral wealth to the United States was not finalized due to Zelensky’s hesitance.
Zelensky has since expressed his willingness to finalize the mineral deal, conveying a conciliatory letter to Trump, which was subsequently mentioned during Trump’s Congressional address. Keith Kellogg, the U.S. special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, indicated support for resuming aid contingent upon Zelensky’s agreement, although the ultimate decision lies with Trump.
Reports suggest that Trump might require additional assurances beyond the minerals deal, particularly concerning concessions to Russia from Zelensky. In response, European leaders have been urgently seeking alternative support for Ukraine, although Zelensky has noted that U.S. security assurances are irreplaceable in negotiations with Russia, which has sustained its military aggression in Ukraine.
Rubio’s prior meetings, including those with his Russian counterpart in Saudi Arabia, signify a thawing of diplomatic relations not seen in the previous administration. Furthermore, Rubio is also set to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his stay. As part of his visit, Trump aims to advocate for Saudi Arabia recognizing Israel, a complex matter heavily influenced by ongoing conflicts in Gaza.
Following his discussions in Saudi Arabia, Rubio will proceed to Quebec for a Group of Seven foreign ministers meeting, focusing on furthering U.S. interests in peace, security, and global stability, without addressing the existing tensions with Canada stemming from recent tariffs.
In summary, Secretary Marco Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia underscores the U.S. administration’s efforts to mediate the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, while negotiating the resumption of aid. As discussions develop, the focus will also encompass diplomatic relationships with Saudi Arabia and the potential recognition of Israel, showcasing the complexity of international relations at this time. Strengthening partnerships and securing essential agreements with Ukraine remain pivotal as the situation evolves.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
