Rubio Heads to Saudi Arabia for Ukraine Talks

MIAMI: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio embarked on a mission to Saudi Arabia on Sunday to engage in crucial talks related to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The visit, set to take place over three days in Jeddah, comes as President Donald Trump considers whether to resume military and intelligence support to Ukraine after a freeze was imposed earlier this year.

During his visit, Rubio will be joined by Trump’s national security advisor, Mike Waltz, and will meet with senior Ukrainian officials, including Zelensky’s national security advisor and defense ministers. The discussions are expected to focus on advancing President Trump’s goal to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

Rubio’s visit marks the first major US diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia since Trump returned to office and began his trade dispute with the country. It is seen as a significant step in the US’s efforts to reshape its foreign policy in the region.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky is also expected in Saudi Arabia, though not for direct participation in the Jeddah talks. Zelensky has expressed his willingness to sign a minerals deal with the US, which Trump insists is crucial for resuming aid and intelligence sharing to Ukraine.

The ongoing tension surrounding frozen US aid to Ukraine stems from disagreements between Zelensky and Trump over mineral wealth and the broader terms of the US-Ukraine relationship. While Trump has expressed doubts about Ukraine’s willingness for peace, he remains hopeful that significant developments could occur during the talks in Saudi Arabia.

Read more: Zelenskiy Visits Saudi Arabia for Key Talks with Crown Prince

In addition to the Ukraine discussions, Rubio is set to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and address other strategic issues, including potential US-Saudi cooperation and the recognition of Israel.

Rubio’s visit will also include a stop in Quebec, Canada, for the Group of Seven foreign ministers meeting, where he will focus on advancing US interests in global peace, security, and cooperation.