US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Saturday that President Donald Trump has not yet made a decision to resume strikes on Iran. Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of a G20 meeting of foreign ministers in Atlanta, Rubio emphasized that the US prefers a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the crisis with Iran. He noted that communication with Tehran often occurs through intermediaries.
Rubio mentioned that he is unaware of a specific timeframe for talks with Iran, but confirmed that Iran continues to openly target commercial ships in the Gulf. He stated that the US can achieve military objectives if needed, but Trump has not made a decision, and they are not taking anything lightly. Rubio's comments come amid rising concerns about a potential new wave of confrontations between the US and Iran.
The US Secretary of State reaffirmed that Washington is open to a diplomatic solution to the conflict with Iran, particularly with the 2026 US midterm elections approaching. He also noted that the international community is increasingly interested in achieving a limited ceasefire in the Black Sea, as part of efforts to ease tensions and ensure continued navigation. Rubio discussed the possibility of a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin during the APEC summit in November.
Rubio revealed that he spoke with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, about a potential meeting between Trump and Putin. He also mentioned that he would not rule out inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the upcoming G20 summit, but the decision ultimately lies with the US President. Rubio emphasized that G20 foreign ministers agree on the importance of enhancing food security and supply chains for critical minerals.
The US Secretary of State highlighted the need to maintain the security and openness of vital trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb. He stressed that uninterrupted trade through these routes is crucial. Rubio also called for the strengthening and expansion of critical minerals' supply chains, considering these resources essential for protecting the economic future and ensuring global trade stability.
Rubio's statements reflect the US government's ongoing efforts to navigate complex relationships with Iran and other major powers. The situation remains volatile, with concerns about potential military escalations and their implications for global security and trade. Diplomatic efforts continue, with the US seeking to balance its objectives with the preferences of its international partners.
The G20 meeting in Atlanta provided a platform for Rubio to engage with international counterparts on pressing issues, including the situation with Iran and the importance of free navigation. The US and its allies remain committed to finding peaceful solutions to conflicts, while also ensuring the security and stability of global trade routes and supply chains.
Key points
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says President Trump has not decided on resuming strikes on Iran.
- The US prefers a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the crisis with Iran.
- The international community seeks to achieve a limited ceasefire in the Black Sea to ease tensions.
