Rubio Meets Russian Officials in Riyadh for Gaza, Ukraine Talks

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in Saudi Arabia for crucial discussions focusing on the Gaza ceasefire and the ongoing war in Ukraine. While meeting with Saudi officials, Rubio is also set to engage with Russian diplomats, including Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, in an effort to lay groundwork for a potential meeting between President Trump and President Putin. The discussions come amid concerns from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has stated he will not accept any peace deal made without Ukraine's involvement. The U.S. aims to secure Arab support for Trump's controversial Gaza redevelopment plan, which involves the temporary relocation of Palestinian residents. European leaders have expressed frustration over being sidelined in the peace negotiations with Russia, highlighting the need for a coordinated response. As these talks unfold, the geopolitical dynamics in the region remain complex, with various stakeholders voicing their interests and concerns.