KUALA LUMPUR, July 10, 2025 — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov today during the ASEAN Regional Forum in Malaysia, as tensions escalate over Russia’s intensifying military actions in Ukraine.

High-Stakes Meeting Follows U.S. Arms Resumption to Ukraine

The face-to-face between Rubio and Lavrov comes just days after the United States resumed defensive weapons shipments to Ukraine, following a pause that had been celebrated in Moscow. President Donald Trump authorized the restart, citing mounting civilian casualties in Ukraine.

“It’s killing too many people,” Trump said Tuesday. “So we’re sending some defensive weapons to Ukraine, and I’ve approved that.”

The move is seen as a direct response to Russia’s increasing air attacks and a signal that the U.S. may not stay neutral in the ongoing conflict.

U.S. Diplomacy Overshadowed by Tariff Threats

Rubio’s debut trip as Secretary of State also includes meetings with ASEAN ministers, many of whom are now facing looming U.S. tariffs set to begin August 1. Eight of ASEAN’s 10 member countries have received tariff letters from the Trump administration, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.

During his address, Rubio attempted to reassure regional allies:

“The Indo-Pacific remains a focal point of U.S. foreign policy… These are partnerships we intend to build on without seeking permission from any actor,” he said—an indirect reference to China.

Still, analysts warn that Rubio’s message may fall flat with Asian leaders alarmed by 30–40% U.S. tariffs on their exports.

China and Russia in the Spotlight

Rubio is also expected to engage with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, amid rising concerns over China’s support for Russia’s military industry. U.S. officials continue to accuse Beijing of supplying components that help Russia rebuild its arsenal used in Ukraine.

The ASEAN summit could prove to be a diplomatic minefield, as the U.S. balances support for Ukraine, pushes back on Chinese influence, and confronts growing backlash from trade partners hit by tariffs.

Energy Cooperation with Malaysia

Earlier Thursday, Rubio signed a civilian nuclear energy memorandum with Malaysia’s foreign minister. This agreement will open the door for formal 123 Agreement negotiations, which enable nuclear cooperation under strict U.S. oversight.

For author: Staff Writer
Courtesy of: Forbes
Source: The Huff Post