Rubio to discuss Iran, Ukraine and AI with G7 allies in France amid policy questions

G7 talks begin in Paris

Rubio is meeting foreign ministers from the United States, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. The two-day gathering comes amid major protests across Europe, including in Paris.

The French hosts have invited Brazil, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Ukraine to join some discussions. France’s Foreign Ministry said the agenda includes a session on artificial intelligence and another on support for Ukraine, alongside priorities involving Africa, China, Cuba and Haiti.

Allies seek policy clarity

The Russia-Ukraine war, Iran, energy and AI are among the main subjects. Many U.S. allies are looking for indications of how Trump intends to proceed after his party’s losses in the midterm elections cost it control of Congress.

Asked about allies seeking clarity, Rubio said they understand American politics and have experienced divisions within their own governments. There has been little sign that the election results will change Trump’s strategy; his first major personnel decision was to appoint Stephen Miller as chief of staff.

Ukraine talks remain uncertain

Rubio said some progress had been made in considering what a post-conflict arrangement might look like, but nothing had been finalized. He said further progress could occur in Abu Dhabi.

Iran diplomacy and other disputes

Rubio said the sides were not close to a breakthrough and that Trump preferred a diplomatic solution. He said diplomacy had not been very productive because Iran’s demands were unacceptable. The meetings follow a G20 foreign ministers gathering Rubio hosted in Atlanta that produced little consensus on major global issues.

ICC tensions remain on agenda

The Trump administration is seeking to dismantle the International Criminal Court, to which every G7 member except the United States belongs. The administration has imposed severe sanctions on the court and several employees, saying it is responding to investigations of Americans.

Rubio’s trip is his first foreign venture since the midterm elections. He is often viewed as offering a gentler presentation of Trump’s approach to allies and adversaries, though he has denied speculation that he might leave early to prepare for a 2028 presidential run.