Rubio says mineral deal will not be the ‘main topic’ in meeting with Ukrainian delegation

Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed reporters on Monday, emphasizing that the mineral deal sought by President Donald Trump is not the main focus of the upcoming meeting with the Ukrainian delegation in Saudi Arabia. Rubio made it clear that while the minerals deal is an important topic, it is not the primary agenda item for the meeting.

During a flight to Saudi Arabia, Rubio stated, “I wouldn’t prejudge tomorrow about whether or not we have a minerals deal. It’s an important topic, but it’s not the main topic on the agenda.” He further explained that the minerals deal is a separate negotiation that is ongoing and not directly linked to the discussions scheduled for Tuesday’s meeting in Jeddah.

Rubio expressed that the success of the meeting does not hinge on securing a minerals deal and that President Trump is eager to see the deal come to fruition but understands it may not happen immediately. The focus of the meeting will be to gauge the intentions and readiness of the Ukrainian delegation to work towards peace and make necessary concessions, such as potentially giving up territory seized by Russia, to end the ongoing conflict.

The Ukrainian delegation, which includes key figures such as Andriy Yermak, Andrii Sybiha, Pavlo Palisa, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, will meet with Rubio in Jeddah to discuss the path to peace in Ukraine. Rubio stressed the importance of both sides coming to a mutual understanding and engaging in diplomatic negotiations to find a resolution to the conflict.

Steve Witkoff, the special envoy to the Middle East, also highlighted the efforts of the Trump administration to bridge the gap between Ukraine and Russia and facilitate negotiations. He mentioned that relations with Ukraine improved following a letter of apology from President Zelenskyy to President Trump after a previous disagreement over the mineral deal.

While a minerals deal may not be finalized during this week’s meeting, Rubio expressed hope for the resumption of aid to Ukraine, including defensive aid and intelligence sharing. He also warned of potential consequences for Russia if they do not agree to negotiate for peace, including the possibility of additional sanctions.

In conclusion, Rubio underscored the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that military means are not a viable solution. The meeting in Jeddah aims to bring both sides closer to a peaceful resolution and pave the way for further negotiations and cooperation.