Ukraine, Europe will be part of ‘real’ peace talks, says Rubio, as US weighs Putin’s motives | Reuters
As the U.S. prepares for Saudi Arabia talks with Russia, Rubio assures Ukraine and Europe will be included in meaningful negotiations. Discover the latest updates on Putin’s motives and the future of Ukraine’s sovereignty.
By Gram Slattery | February 17, 2025
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed that Ukraine and Europe will play a central role in any “real negotiations” to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. This comes as the U.S. prepares for high-stakes talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia, aimed at assessing President Vladimir Putin’s commitment to peace.
In a recent interview with CBS, Rubio addressed concerns that Europe might be excluded from initial discussions, emphasizing that Ukraine and European leaders would be included if talks progress.
Key Highlights of the Upcoming Peace Talks
- Saudi Arabia Talks: U.S. officials, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and national security adviser Mike Waltz, are set to meet with Russian delegates in Saudi Arabia.
- European Involvement: Rubio assured that Ukraine and European nations would be part of any meaningful negotiations, given their direct stakes in the conflict.
- Putin’s Motives: The talks aim to gauge whether Putin is genuinely interested in peace or merely stalling for time.
Why Europe’s Role Matters
European leaders have expressed concerns about being sidelined in peace negotiations, especially after remarks by Trump’s Ukraine envoy, Keith Kellogg, suggested their exclusion. However, Rubio and Witkoff have dismissed these fears, stating that Europe’s involvement is crucial for any lasting resolution.
“Ultimately, if it’s real negotiations, Ukraine will have to be involved because they’re the ones that were invaded, and the Europeans will have to be involved because they have sanctions on Putin and Russia as well,” Rubio said.
U.S. and Russia: A Complex Relationship
The upcoming talks coincide with a U.S. effort to secure investment opportunities in Ukraine’s natural resources. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has raised concerns about whether Russia-controlled territories would be included in such deals.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump, who recently spoke with Putin, expressed confidence that the Russian leader does not intend to seize all of Ukraine. “I think he wants to end it,” Trump said, adding that Zelenskiy would be involved in peace discussions.
European Leaders React
French President Emmanuel Macron has called an emergency summit with European leaders to address the Ukraine crisis. European officials remain wary of Trump’s approach, fearing a potential peace deal that could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and European security.
What’s Next?
As the Saudi Arabia talks approach, all eyes are on Putin’s next move. Will he commit to peace, or is this another strategic delay? Rubio emphasized that actions, not words, will determine the outcome.
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