On February 18, 2025, a pivotal meeting took place at Diriyah Palace between new American Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. This encounter aimed to revive U.S.-Russia relations. Rubio, once a critic of Trump, has become a key diplomatic figure, shaping foreign policy with a focus on Latin America, international threats, and evolving strategies regarding Ukraine. His leadership marks a significant transition in American diplomacy under Trump’s administration.
Intense Diplomatic Encounters at Diriyah Palace
On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the new American Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, prepared for a crucial meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at the Diriyah Palace in Riyadh. This significant gathering aimed to lay the groundwork for revitalizing the dialogue between the United States and Russia. Lavrov, a seasoned diplomat known for his pivotal role during the Putin administration, faced off against Rubio, who was stepping onto the international stage for the first time. Rubio’s recent appointment follows Donald Trump’s return to the White House, marking him as the voice of American diplomacy in this new era.
Marco Rubio: From Contender to Diplomatic Leader
Once labeled ‘little Marco’ by Donald Trump, a term that carried an air of derision, Rubio has evolved from a fierce critic to an essential ally. During the 2016 Republican primaries, Rubio did not shy away from harshly criticizing Trump, calling him a ‘fraud’ and ridiculing his appearance. However, as Trump’s presidency unfolded, Rubio gradually shifted his stance, choosing to support the former president, especially during Trump’s contentious campaign against Hillary Clinton.
Born in May 1971 to a Cuban family in Miami, Rubio’s political journey began early, quickly earning local positions in Florida. His rise to the Senate in 2010 was propelled by the ‘Tea Party’ movement, although he later distanced himself from its extremes. Despite this, Rubio remains a prominent figure within the right-wing faction of the Republican Party, holding strong anti-abortion views while adopting a more moderate approach to immigration—though he has increasingly aligned with Trump’s more drastic policies.
Rubio’s transition to the State Department was anticipated, given his role as an informal advisor on South American affairs during Trump’s first term. He became known informally as the ‘virtual Secretary of State for Latin America.’ His hawkish stance on international relations has seen him take firm positions against nations such as China and Iran, as well as the Venezuelan government.
His unwavering support for Ukraine since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022 has been notable. Recently, however, Rubio echoed sentiments from the current administration, suggesting it was time to reassess U.S. involvement in Ukraine. His statement about financing a stalemate reflects a broader shift in diplomatic strategy as the situation evolves.
Since the beginning of the Trump presidency, Rubio has been a key player, facilitating the suspension of U.S. aid overseas, impacting numerous NGOs worldwide. His inaugural trip abroad to Panama was marked by discussions of U.S. interests in the region, including the contentious Panama Canal, and he returned with commitments from Panama to limit its projects with China. Notably, he endorsed Trump’s controversial idea of acquiring Greenland, framing it as beneficial for U.S. national interests.
Marco Rubio became the first Cabinet member approved by the Senate unanimously on January 20, shortly after Trump’s inauguration. During his confirmation process, he maintained a generally diplomatic tone, except for a pointed critique of China. As he embarks on his role, Rubio is expected to drive a foreign policy that challenges conventional norms, focusing on issues such as the Panama Canal, potential territorial acquisitions, and diplomatic relations with Russia.