Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit Saudi Arabia to discuss U.S.-Ukraine relations and efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war. During his trip, he plans to meet with key leaders, including the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, as he prepares to attend G7 talks in Canada. The discussions will include the potential resumption of U.S. aid to Ukraine, contingent on the signing of a minerals agreement by President Zelensky.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia for discussions concerning Ukraine amidst President Donald Trump’s deliberations on possibly lifting an aid freeze to this wartime ally. This venture marks Rubio as the most senior official to engage in talks since Trump returned to power, during which he has had a contentious relationship with Canada, exacerbated by a trade conflict.
During his meetings in Jeddah from Monday to Wednesday, Rubio is set to address the objective of advancing the President’s initiatives aimed at concluding the Russia-Ukraine war. Notably, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce specified that the terminology regarding a Russian invasion of Ukraine would not be used in the discussions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also expected to participate in the talks, along with Trump’s confidant and envoy, Steve Witkoff.
The backdrop of these discussions includes the recent suspension of aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine by Trump following a contentious meeting with Zelensky. This was marked by Zelensky’s refusal to agree to terms proposed by Trump, including the transfer of substantial mineral resources to the United States as a form of repayment for military aid under the prior Biden administration. Following this incident, Zelensky has expressed willingness to sign the minerals deal, underscoring a more conciliatory stance towards the U.S.
According to Keith Kellogg, the U.S. special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, assistance may resume once Zelensky finalizes the deal; however, the ultimate decision rests with Trump. Reports suggest that Trump is hesitant to reinstate aid solely based on the minerals agreement, seeking further guarantees that concessions will be made to Russia. Although European leaders are attempting to fill the gap created by the U.S. aid suspension, Zelensky has made it clear that America’s security assurances are irreplaceable.
Conversely, Russia has continued its relentless campaign of strikes on Ukrainian targets. Trump has also threatened to intensify sanctions against Russia should it fail to engage in negotiations. Rubio previously met with his Russian equivalent, signaling a thaw in Biden-era diplomatic freezes, and discussed potential economic collaborations post-war.
Additionally, Rubio’s itinerary includes a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. Trump is anticipated to advocate for Saudi recognition of Israel, although the realization of this goal seems distant pending the resolution of the Gaza conflict. Subsequently, Rubio will proceed to Quebec to attend a Group of Seven foreign ministers’ meeting, where he aims to further U.S. interests in global stability and strategic collaboration, amidst ongoing tensions between Trump and Canada.
In conclusion, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia underscores a critical phase in U.S.-Ukraine relations as President Trump considers a resumption of aid. The ongoing discussions appear vital for advancing diplomatic solutions to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, while also addressing nuanced issues concerning economic cooperation and regional stability. By engaging with key figures within the Saudi government and participating in international talks, the U.S. seeks to reinforce its strategic interests amidst complex geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
