Rubio Discusses Russia-Ukraine Conflict and Middle East Issues in Saudi Arabia
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in Saudi Arabia for discussions aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict and addressing the Gaza situation. His visit includes meetings with regional leaders, focusing on US proposals concerning Gaza’s population and Saudi Arabia’s mediating capabilities between the US and Iran regarding nuclear negotiations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Saudi Arabia to engage in talks aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. His agenda also includes discussions regarding Gaza and regional issues. Rubio was previously in Tel Aviv and will continue to the UAE after his meetings in Riyadh. Accompanying him are Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, marking his inaugural visit to the Middle East under President Trump’s administration.
Rubio’s discussions are timed after a recent conversation between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, leading US officials to initiate dialogue about the Ukraine war. Saudi Arabia, leveraging its connections with both Russia and Ukraine, has positioned itself as a mediator in the conflict, a strategic choice given its regional influence. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, present in the region, expressed discontent over not being included in the talks, stressing that Kyiv will only engage Russia after consulting its allies.
The agenda in Saudi Arabia is also expected to cover Trump’s controversial proposal for resettling Gaza’s Palestinian population amid reconstruction efforts. This plan has faced significant opposition from various Arab states, including Egypt and Jordan, who have united against the initiative. Gaza has experienced substantial destruction due to ongoing conflicts, leading to a fragile ceasefire after Israel’s military responses to Hamas attacks.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has maintained that Saudi Arabia will not establish relations with Israel without clear progress on Palestinian statehood. Following his meeting with Rubio, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed his intent to advance Trump’s resettlement strategy for Gaza. Reportedly, Saudi Arabia may also facilitate negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear program, a move driven by their interest in regional stability.
Saudi Arabia and Iran reestablished diplomatic relations in March 2023, a development that could influence future dialogues regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. This diplomatic relationship comes amid a recent shift in regional dynamics, where weaker positions of Iran’s allies are noted. Both Israel and the US remain focused on countering Iran’s influence and nuclear developments, a sentiment reiterated by Netanyahu after discussions with Rubio.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a critical diplomatic effort to mediate both the Russia-Ukraine conflict and address regional instability stemming from the Gaza situation. The discussions are crucial as they bring together various stakeholders, including Arab nations, to forge a path toward resolution while grappling with contentious proposals like the resettlement of Gazans. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s role as a mediator with Iran could shape future negotiations on nuclear concerns, highlighting the kingdom’s strategic geopolitical position.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
