Rubio Travels to Saudi Arabia to Address Ukraine Aid Discussions and Diplomacy
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit Saudi Arabia to engage in talks with Ukrainian leaders amid discussions about resuming aid to Ukraine. This visit is critical as it also involves negotiations on ending the Russia-Ukraine war and may influence U.S.-Saudi relations concerning Israel. Rubio will subsequently attend a G7 meeting in Canada to further U.S. foreign policy interests.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia for discussions with Ukrainian officials, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s considerations regarding a freeze on aid to Ukraine amid the ongoing war. The State Department has confirmed his attendance at this meeting, marking him as the highest-ranking official to visit since Trump returned to power, amidst trade tensions with Canada and controversial remarks about its sovereignty.
Rubio’s discussions in Jeddah, set for Monday through Wednesday, will focus on advancing the President’s goal of resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This statement comes from State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, who avoided using language that directly references Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, along with Trump’s advisor Steve Witkoff, is also expected to participate in the talks.
The backdrop to these discussions includes a previous contentious meeting between Trump and Zelensky, held on February 28, after which Trump halted aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. The incident was marked by public critiques from Republican figures, including Vice President JD Vance, regarding Ukraine’s perceived lack of gratitude for U.S. military support. Trump had requested Ukraine to agree to a deal transferring much of its mineral wealth to the U.S., citing taxpayer compensation for previous assistance.
Zelensky has since expressed willingness to engage in negotiations regarding the minerals deal, having sent a conciliatory correspondence to Trump that was publicly referenced during a congressional address. U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg stated support for resuming assistance once Zelensky finalizes the agreement, although he noted that the ultimate decision rests with Trump.
Reports suggest that Trump may seek further assurances from Zelensky, particularly in terms of his readiness to concede to Russia before reconsidering the aid freeze. Meanwhile, European leaders are concerned about replacing U.S. financial support, acknowledging that no alternative can match the security guarantees provided by the U.S. in negotiations with Russia.
Russia has maintained its aggressive stance, continuing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Recently, Trump has threatened to impose stricter sanctions on Russia to compel its participation in negotiations. Rubio, after meeting with his Russian counterpart last month, has discussed prospects for economic cooperation should the conflict be resolved, with those discussions also occurring in Saudi Arabia.
In Jeddah, Rubio is expected to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. It is anticipated that Trump will advocate for Saudi recognition of Israel, despite ongoing challenges related to the Gaza conflict. Afterward, Rubio will proceed to Canada for a G7 foreign ministers’ meeting aimed at promoting U.S. interests related to global stability and security, amid tensions stemming from Trump’s previous remarks about Canada.
In conclusion, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a crucial effort to mediate U.S. relations with Ukraine and assess progress regarding potential aid revival under Trump. The meetings will address key political dynamics, particularly Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate on mineral resources and the overarching goal of ending hostilities with Russia. Additionally, Rubio’s interactions in Jeddah may impact U.S. diplomatic relations in the region, navigating the complexities of Middle Eastern politics and the ongoing Gaza situation.
Original Source: www.france24.com
