US Secretary Rubio Meets Russia's Lavrov Amid Ukraine Attacks, Asia Tariff Tensions

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Kuala Lumpur during the ASEAN Regional Forum amidst escalating tensions due to Russia's intensifying attacks on Ukraine. This meeting occurs as the U.S. has resumed arms shipments to Ukraine, reversing a prior pause, with President Trump criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin for the ongoing violence. Rubio's visit to Asia also coincides with Trump's trade war, threatening tariffs on several countries including many in the Indo-Pacific region, though officials say trade will not be the primary focus of the talks. The meeting aims to address difficult issues including the Ukraine conflict, maritime security in the South China Sea, and transnational crime, while underscoring the U.S. commitment to strengthening relations in East and Southeast Asia to counter China's influence. Lavrov's itinerary following the summit includes a trip to North Korea, highlighting expanding military cooperation between Russia and Pyongyang. Despite Trump's critical stance on Putin, Moscow maintains a calm approach and expresses willingness to repair strained U.S.-Russia relations.