Marco Rubio’s Diplomatic Engagements in Saudi Arabia Concerning Ukraine
Marco Rubio’s trip to Saudi Arabia focuses on advancing U.S. diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine and assessing aid dynamics under Trump. Discussions will also involve Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at regional stabilization and strategic relations. The Ukraine situation remains critical, with expected implications for U.S. aid and cooperation.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to travel to Saudi Arabia on Sunday for discussions regarding Ukraine amidst a potential shift in the U.S. aid stance under President Trump. This visit comes alongside his attendance at the Group of Seven (G7) meetings in Canada, marking his role as the highest-ranking official to visit following Trump’s return to power. The agenda for talks in Jeddah, scheduled from Monday to Wednesday, emphasizes advancing peace efforts in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also expected to attend the talks in Jeddah, along with Trump’s advisor Steve Witkoff. Tension remains following Trump’s previous suspension of aid to Ukraine after a failed meeting with Zelensky. The Republican administration criticized Zelensky for perceived ingratitude concerning past military assistance, which complicates further negotiations. Zelensky previously did not agree to terms proposed by Trump regarding Ukraine’s mineral wealth but has since indicated a willingness to consider the minerals deal after a conciliatory correspondence.
Keith Kellogg, the U.S. special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, stated support for resuming U.S. aid contingent on Zelensky’s agreement to the minerals deal. However, reports speculate that Trump desires more than just the minerals arrangement and seeks assurances of Zelensky’s concessions towards Russia. European leaders are actively seeking ways to compensate for the potential drop in U.S. support amidst ongoing Russian aggression, which has continued in various forms, including attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
In his prior engagement, Rubio met with his Russian counterpart, breaking a communication freeze that persisted during the Biden administration. These discussions, held in Saudi Arabia, hinted at possible future economic collaborations contingent on an end to the war. During his visit to Jeddah, Rubio is also anticipated to confer with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, especially on regional issues, including normalization efforts regarding Israel.
Following his Saudi visit, Rubio is set to engage with G7 foreign ministers in Quebec, where he aims to bolster U.S. strategic interests and global stability. Despite strained relations with Canada, exacerbated by Trump’s tariff strategies, Rubio will focus on peace and strategic cooperation during the G7 talks, marking an effort to maintain U.S. influence in the region while addressing pressing global challenges.
Marco Rubio’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia highlights key diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine amidst ongoing complexities surrounding U.S. aid. As the U.S. navigates its position in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Rubio’s talks will significantly influence future aid decisions. Emphasis on Ukraine’s mineral deal as a condition for aid and renewed U.S.-Saudi relations underscores the intricate web of diplomacy within the region, setting the stage for potential shifts in international relations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
