U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated on Monday that a ban on arms supplies to Ukraine could be lifted as early as Tuesday if ongoing peace talks yield positive results. Rubio emphasized that a successful outcome does not hinge on the signing of a critical minerals agreement but stressed the importance of assessing Kyiv’s willingness to make concessions.
The talks, set to take place in Jeddah on Tuesday, will involve high-level discussions between U.S. officials, including Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and their Ukrainian counterparts. Witkoff, speaking to Fox News on Monday, expressed optimism about the negotiations, stating, “We’re going over there with an expectation that we’re going to make substantial progress.” When asked about the likelihood of a minerals deal, he added, “All the signs are very, very positive.”
Intelligence Sharing and Ceasefire Proposals on the Agenda
Intelligence sharing between the U.S. and Ukraine is expected to be a key topic during the talks. Witkoff clarified that the U.S. has never halted intelligence sharing for defensive purposes, a point echoed by President Donald Trump, who told Fox News earlier on Monday that he had “just about” lifted the pause on intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is anticipated to propose a partial air and sea ceasefire during the meeting, a move advised by Jonathan Powell, national security adviser to UK Labour leader Keir Starmer. The proposal is seen as an effort to encourage the U.S. to fully resume intelligence cooperation with Kyiv.
Witkoff also revealed that Trump had received a letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which included an “apology” and a “sense of gratitude.” The letter appears to have played a role in easing tensions between the two nations.
Zelensky Meets Saudi Officials Ahead of Talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Jeddah on Monday, where he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. However, Zelensky is not expected to remain for negotiations with the U.S. delegation.
The discussions on Tuesday will include key figures such as Rubio and Andriy Yermak, a top aide to Zelensky. The outcome of the talks could mark a significant step toward resolving the ongoing conflict and strengthening U.S.-Ukraine relations.
As the negotiations unfold, the international community will be closely watching for signs of progress, particularly regarding the potential lifting of the arms ban and the resumption of full intelligence sharing.