Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that a mineral deal sought by President Donald Trump is not the main topic of discussion for the meeting set with the Ukrainian delegation in Saudi Arabia. The delegation includes key Ukrainian figures such as Andriy Yermak and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Rubio emphasized the importance of establishing intentions towards peace and making difficult decisions, such as giving up territory seized by Russia, in order to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He stressed the need for both sides to come to an understanding and engage in diplomacy to avoid further escalation of the conflict.
Special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, stated that the Trump administration has made efforts to bridge differences and bring Russia to the negotiating table regarding Ukraine. Relations between Ukraine and the U.S. improved after Ukrainian President Zelenskyy sent Trump a letter of apology following a disagreement over a mineral deal. While a mineral deal may not be achieved during the current meeting, Rubio expressed hope of securing the resumption of aid to Ukraine, including defensive aid that was halted by the Trump administration. He also warned of potential consequences for Russia if it does not agree to negotiate on ending the war, including additional sanctions.
Rubio highlighted the necessity of reaching a diplomatic solution to the conflict in Ukraine, as military means will not bring a resolution. He expressed hope that the meeting in Jeddah will lead to progress in resolving the conflict and potentially resuming aid to Ukraine. In a message posted on the Truth Social platform, Trump threatened Russia with banking sanctions, tariffs, and other measures until a ceasefire and peace settlement are reached. The meeting in Saudi Arabia is seen as a crucial opportunity to address the ongoing conflict and work towards a peaceful resolution.
The Ukrainian delegation, including key figures such as the head of the presidential office, minister of foreign affairs, and defense minister, is set to meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jeddah. Rubio emphasized the importance of understanding the intentions of the Ukrainian officials regarding peace talks and their willingness to make necessary concessions to reach a settlement. He stated that the meeting aims to establish a dialogue between both sides and assess the potential for a diplomatic solution to the conflict in Ukraine, taking into consideration the challenges faced by both parties.
Rubio acknowledged that the mineral deal sought by President Trump is of importance, but not the main focus of the meeting. He underscored the need for both Ukraine and Russia to engage in dialogue and make compromises to end the war, as military solutions are not viable. The resumption of aid to Ukraine, including defensive assistance, is a key objective for the meeting in Jeddah. Rubio also emphasized the potential consequences for Russia if it fails to negotiate in good faith, including the imposition of additional sanctions.
In conclusion, the meeting in Saudi Arabia between the Ukrainian delegation and Secretary of State Marco Rubio is seen as a critical opportunity to advance peace talks and potentially secure the resumption of aid to Ukraine. Rubio expressed hope that the meeting will lead to progress in resolving the conflict and emphasized the importance of diplomatic negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. The Trump administration’s efforts to bridge differences with Russia and bring both parties to the negotiating table were highlighted, with a focus on the need for both sides to reach a mutual understanding and engage in meaningful dialogue towards a peaceful resolution.
