U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting Saudi Arabia to discuss aid and strategies regarding Ukraine amid President Trump’s intentions. The meetings will cover vital foreign relations and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war while also addressing U.S. security commitments. Discussions will include Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and expectations surrounding U.S.-Canada relationships.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is traveling to Saudi Arabia for discussions regarding Ukraine amid President Donald Trump’s ambiguity on aid. This visit, marking the senior-most official’s attendance since Trump’s return, will coincide with Group of Seven talks in Canada, where trade tensions remain high. In Jeddah from Monday to Wednesday, Rubio aims to facilitate efforts to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, as announced by State Department representative Tammy Bruce.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to join the discussions, alongside Trump adviser Steve Witkoff. The backdrop includes Trump’s suspension of aid to Ukraine after a contentious meeting with Zelensky in February. Critically, both Rubio and Vice President JD Vance expressed discontent over Zelensky’s response to prior U.S. support.
Zelensky has indicated a willingness to sign a minerals deal, which Trump believes will justify U.S. taxpayer investments, although the administration reportedly seeks more substantial assurances from Ukraine regarding concessions to Russia before reinstating aid.
European leaders are urgently exploring alternatives to U.S. assistance, but Zelensky emphasizes the unmatched value of U.S. security guarantees. Concurrently, Russian military operations continue targeting Ukrainian infrastructure, prompting Trump to threaten intensified sanctions against Russia.
Rubio’s earlier meeting with Russian officials marked a shift in diplomatic relations and discussions of potential economic cooperation were also held in Saudi Arabia, a crucial partner to Trump.
In addition to addressing Ukraine, Rubio plans to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, seeking Saudi recognition of Israel—a difficult task given the ongoing Gaza conflict. Following this, Rubio will attend the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Quebec, focusing on U.S. interests in global security and cooperation, despite noted strains in U.S.-Canada relations.
Marco Rubio’s trip to Saudi Arabia underscores the strategic connections between U.S. foreign policy and the ongoing Ukraine crisis. The discussions aim not only to re-evaluate U.S. aid but also to foster diplomatic ties with key stakeholders, including Russia and Saudi Arabia. The outcomes may pivot the current geopolitical landscape, particularly in relation to U.S.-Ukraine relations and broader Middle Eastern alliances.
Original Source: www.france24.com
