President Donald Trump confirmed Tuesday that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will represent the United States at upcoming peace talks between Russia and Ukraine set to take place in Istanbul later this week.
Rubio, who is currently accompanying President Trump on his first major overseas trip of the term, will lead the U.S. delegation at the negotiations, which are aimed at seeking a resolution to the long-running conflict between Moscow and Kyiv.
“Talks are being held in Turkey later this week — probably on Thursday, and they could produce some pretty good results,” President Trump told reporters.
“Our people are going to be going there, Marco is going to be going there, others are going to be going, and we’ll see if we can get it done.”
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Rubio had already been scheduled to attend a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Turkey, and his role has now been expanded to include participation in the Russia-Ukraine peace process.
The Secretary of State is also accompanying the President on his Middle East itinerary, which includes high-level engagements in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
President Trump previously indicated he was open to attending the negotiations personally, citing his administration’s ongoing efforts to bring an end to the war, which has drawn international concern and economic repercussions.
Trump may attend the Zelensky-Putin meeting. pic.twitter.com/1hwCrl6MCa
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) May 12, 2025
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On Monday, he stated he would consider participating directly “if I thought it would help.”
The Istanbul talks are being hosted by the Turkish government, which has sought to position itself as a neutral mediator in the conflict.
The peace efforts are expected to focus on establishing ceasefire frameworks, territorial concerns, and international security guarantees.
Rubio’s presence at the negotiations will signal a high-level American commitment to the peace process.
🚨 BREAKING: President Trump says he is “booked out” tomorrow BUT would possibly go to Turkey to mediate peace talks with Putin and Zelensky tomorrow.
MARCO RUBIO is for sure going.
“Tomorrow, we’re all booked … That doesn’t mean I wouldn’t do it to save a lot of lives and… pic.twitter.com/uivMgUPWbM
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) May 14, 2025
Officials have not confirmed which additional U.S. diplomatic or military personnel may attend the session.
This round of negotiations comes at a time when several NATO member nations have been urging both sides to return to diplomacy.
Turkey, which maintains ties with both Russia and Ukraine, has been a frequent host of diplomatic engagements since the start of the conflict.
While specific details of the U.S. negotiating position were not disclosed, Trump has repeatedly expressed confidence in Rubio’s capabilities.
The President has described Rubio as “tough, smart, and respected” in the international arena.
This will be the first formal sit-down between Russian and Ukrainian officials attended by a top U.S. cabinet member since Trump’s re-election.
The administration has described ending the conflict as a key foreign policy priority, alongside strengthening alliances in the Middle East and countering threats from China.
The Middle East trip, which began earlier this week, includes meetings with regional leaders to discuss defense cooperation, trade partnerships, and regional stability.
Trump and Rubio are expected to conclude the trip after the talks in Turkey are completed.
Further announcements regarding the results of the negotiations are expected following the conclusion of the Istanbul summit later this week.
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