RIYADH — US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday laid out a multi-track approach to restoring diplomatic ties with Russia and ending the three-year-long Ukraine war following high-level talks in Riyadh.

Speaking at a press conference alongside National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, Rubio emphasized that the plan includes normalizing diplomatic activities, engaging in discussions on Ukraine, and exploring post-war economic and geopolitical opportunities.

The Russian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, included presidential aide Yury Ushakov and Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund.

“The next step is multi-track,” Rubio said. “The first priority is ensuring that our diplomatic missions can function normally. We need vibrant diplomatic channels to continue these discussions.”

The second step involves forming a high-level team of experts to negotiate with Russian counterparts on the framework for ending the war.

Rubio underscored the importance of consulting Ukraine and European allies, acknowledging that Russia’s participation is essential to any resolution.

The third step focuses on identifying geopolitical and economic opportunities that could emerge after the war’s resolution.

Rubio noted the potential for “historic” partnerships and highlighted the role of economic incentives in stabilizing post-war relations.

He stressed that sanctions, imposed due to the conflict, would require compromises from all sides.

“We’re not going to predetermine what those are. The European Union will have to be involved at some point because they also have sanctions in place,” he said.

Describing the talks as the start of a “long and difficult journey,” Rubio expressed optimism about Russia’s willingness to engage in serious negotiations.

He reiterated US President Donald Trump’s commitment to securing a “sustainable and enduring” peace that prevents another conflict from reigniting within a few years.

“The solution must be acceptable to all parties—Ukraine, European partners, and Russia. A lasting resolution means one that works for everyone involved,” he added.

Rubio also emphasized the broader implications of ending the war, stating that a successful resolution could lead to increased global stability and new areas of cooperation between the US and Russia.

“If an agreement is reached, the world will be a better place. There will be significant opportunities for bilateral geopolitical collaboration and economic partnerships,” he said.

However, he cautioned that progress depends on restoring normal diplomatic operations between Moscow and Washington.

“We cannot move forward unless our diplomatic missions operate with some level of normalcy,” he concluded. — Agencies