Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, will visit Saudi Arabia to discuss potential resolutions to the Ukraine crisis and gauge the possibility of reinstating U.S. aid. Discussions will include the minerals deal proposed by Ukraine, and Rubio is also scheduled to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic role in the region. The visit precedes G7 talks in Canada, where broader U.S. interests in security and cooperation will be addressed.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia for discussions with Ukrainian officials as the Trump administration deliberates on lifting an aid freeze. This visit marks Rubio as the highest-ranking official to meet following President Trump’s return and is part of broader engagements, including the upcoming G7 talks in Canada.

The agenda during meetings in Jeddah will focus on facilitating Trump’s efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as articulated by State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce. Notably, President Zelensky of Ukraine will also attend the discussions, alongside Trump advisor Steve Witkoff.

Tensions have escalated since Trump ceased aid and intelligence cooperation with Ukraine following an unproductive meeting with Zelensky in February. President Trump expressed dissatisfaction regarding Ukraine’s perceived lack of gratitude for previous military support, and negotiations for an agreement that would involve Ukraine transferring a significant portion of its mineral resources to the United States have stalled.

Zelensky has indicated willingness to sign the proposed minerals agreement in a letter meant to reassure Trump, which was presented during a recent congressional address. U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg mentioned that support for Ukraine could resume upon finalizing the mineral deal, although decisions ultimately rest with Trump.

European leaders are seeking alternative means of assistance given the reduction of U.S. support; however, Zelensky has emphasized the irreplaceable nature of U.S. security assurances in any agreements with Russia. Despite ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine, Trump has voiced intentions to intensify sanctions against Russia unless they engage in negotiations.

During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Rubio is also expected to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflecting the kingdom’s emerging role in facilitating U.S.-Russia discussions. Furthermore, Rubio will continue to engage in diplomatic dialogue aimed at achieving stability in the region and addressing security matters during the G7 meeting in Quebec.

Although prior tensions between the U.S. and Canada remain unresolved, with ongoing trade disputes, a more cooperative stance may be necessary as economic conditions fluctuate.

In summary, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia is strategically significant as it aims to reassess U.S. support for Ukraine and reinforce diplomatic ties amid ongoing tensions in the region. The primary focus will be on advancing potential agreements with Ukraine that could facilitate the resumption of aid, alongside broader discussions on global security and cooperation within the G7 framework. The outcomes of these discussions could reshape U.S. engagement in the Ukraine conflict and its relations with regional partners.

Original Source: www.france24.com

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