Rubio Visits Saudi Arabia to Address Ukraine Crisis and U.S. Aid Resumption
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting Saudi Arabia to discuss the situation in Ukraine and U.S. military aid under President Trump. His talks aim to advance efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Following this, he will attend G7 meetings in Canada, focusing on U.S. interests in global security and cooperation amidst ongoing tensions.
On Sunday, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio commenced a visit to Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions concerning Ukraine, amidst uncertainty regarding the resumption of military and intelligence support from President Donald Trump. Following his discussions in Jeddah, Rubio is scheduled to attend Group of Seven (G7) talks in Canada, marking his status as the first significant US official to visit the region since Trump’s return to office.
During his three days in Jeddah, Rubio will focus on efforts to “advance the president’s goal to end the Russia-Ukraine war,” as articulated by State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce. Notably, Bruce refrained from labeling the situation as a “Russian invasion of Ukraine,” a term used by the previous administration and its allies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is anticipated to participate in the talks, alongside Trump confidant and envoy Steve Witkoff. Rubio departed from Miami’s Homestead Air Base around 8:00 PM local time. In a separate conversation, Trump expressed optimism about the outcome, stating, “I think we’re going to have a good result in Saudi Arabia… I think Ukraine’s going to do well, and I think Russia is going to do well.
In recent developments, Trump had previously suspended aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine following a contentious meeting with Zelensky on February 28. The Republican leadership criticized Zelensky for perceived ingratitude regarding US aid and insisted on an agreement for Ukraine to transfer significant mineral wealth to the United States as a form of compensation.
Zelensky has indicated his willingness to sign the minerals deal, and he submitted a conciliatory letter to Trump, which was shared during Trump’s address to Congress. Keith Kellogg, the US special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, highlighted support for resuming assistance contingent on Zelensky signing the deal, but the final decision rests with Trump.
Reports suggest that Trump may seek further assurances beyond the minerals deal, expressing doubts regarding Ukraine’s commitment to peace. He stated, “Right now, they haven’t shown it to the extent that they should… but I think they will be.
In light of the ongoing conflict, European leaders are urgently seeking alternatives to US aid; however, Zelensky has underscored the necessity of Washington’s support in negotiations with Russia. Amidst continuing Russian military actions against Ukraine, including attacks on critical infrastructure, Trump has also indicated a potential increase in sanctions against Russia.
Previously, Rubio met with his Russian counterpart, initiating high-level discussions after a period of limited communication under the Biden administration, emphasizing future economic collaboration should hostilities cease. In Jeddah, Rubio is expected to meet with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss various international issues, including the recognition of Israel. His ensuing participation in the G7 foreign ministers meeting in Quebec will focus on promoting US interests in global stability and security, although recent tensions with Canada have not been addressed openly.
In conclusion, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a critical diplomatic effort to address the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. His discussions aim to navigate the complexities surrounding U.S. military aid, the potential resumption of negotiations with Russia, and the broader implications for international diplomacy. The forthcoming G7 meetings will further emphasize U.S. interests in peace and strategic cooperation despite existing diplomatic tensions. The outcome of these discussions remains pivotal, particularly as Ukraine’s future and its relations with the U.S. are contingent upon ongoing negotiations and potential agreements. The geopolitical landscape continues to shift, with implications for global stability and security.
Original Source: www.insidenova.com
