US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting Saudi Arabia to discuss Ukraine’s position and the potential lifting of U.S. aid freeze under President Trump. Key discussions will involve Zelensky’s readiness to make concessions, US relations with Russia, and broader strategic interests. Following Saudi talks, Rubio will attend Group of Seven meetings in Canada.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions regarding the ongoing situation in Ukraine, during a period when President Donald Trump is contemplating the potential lifting of an aid freeze to the nation. The State Department verified that Rubio would also attend the Group of Seven talks in Canada, marking the first high-level visit since Trump’s recent return to office, amidst a backdrop of ongoing trade tensions with Canada.
During meetings in Jeddah from Monday to Wednesday, Rubio aims to explore avenues to progress the administration’s objectives of resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as stated by State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is confirmed to attend the discussions, alongside Trump’s advisor, Steve Witkoff. Trump had previously suspended military and intelligence aid to Ukraine following a contentious meeting with Zelensky that occurred on February 28.
A public reprimand was voiced by Vice President JD Vance and other Republicans towards Zelensky due to perceptions of ungratefulness regarding prior U.S. military support. Although Zelensky departed the White House without acquiescing to a deal proposed by Trump, in which Ukraine would transfer a considerable portion of its mineral resources to the U.S., he has since signaled a willingness to proceed with such an agreement.
Keith Kellogg, the special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, has expressed his support for resuming aid contingent upon Zelensky signing the proposed minerals deal; however, the ultimate decision rests with Trump. Reports suggest that Trump might require more concessions from Zelensky regarding negotiations with Russia beyond just the minerals agreement.
Despite Zelensky’s advocacy for U.S. aid as irreplaceable in dealing with Russia, European leaders are scrambling to compensate for the lack of assistance stemming from Washington. Continuous attacks by Russia on Ukraine’s infrastructure have persisted, prompting Trump to threaten increased sanctions on Russia should it fail to engage in negotiations.
Rubio previously convened with his Russian counterpart, breaking a hiatus in high-level communication established under Biden’s administration, signifying potential economic collaboration contingent on the cessation of hostilities. In Jeddah, he is also set to engage with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s de facto leader. Additionally, Trump is anticipated to advocate for Saudi recognition of Israel, although this seems improbable until a lasting resolution to the Gaza conflict is achieved.
Subsequently, Rubio will travel to Quebec for a meeting of Group of Seven foreign ministers, with intentions to bolster U.S. interests relating to peace, security, and global stability. Notably, there are no comments regarding current tensions with Canada, amidst Trump’s criticism of the nation as the “51st state” due to ongoing trade tariffs.
In summary, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s impending visit to Saudi Arabia highlights significant discussions regarding U.S. aid to Ukraine amid President Trump’s considerations on the matter. As both parties navigate the complexities of international relations, particularly with respect to concessions needed from Ukraine and ongoing tensions with Russia, the outcomes from this diplomatic engagement will be pivotal. Furthermore, Rubio’s subsequent participation in the Group of Seven meetings underscores the administration’s strategic focus on global stability and U.S. interests worldwide.
Original Source: www.france24.com
