US Secretary Rubio discusses Iran, Venezuela in calls with French, Cypriot ministers

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in diplomatic coordination with two key European partners on Sunday, holding separate telephone conversations with the foreign ministers of France and the Greek Cypriot administration. The discussions, detailed in State Department readouts, focused on a consistent set of pressing international crises, highlighting Washington's efforts to align perspectives with allies on volatile situations.

Discussions with France: Iran, Venezuela, and the Ukraine War

In his call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, Secretary Rubio addressed a broad agenda of global hotspots. The two diplomats exchanged views on the widespread anti-government protests in Iran, which have entered their second week amid a severe crackdown and internet blackouts. They also discussed the aftermath of the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, a move that has drawn criticism from France and other European nations. Additionally, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and diplomatic efforts to end the conflict were on the agenda.

Conversation with Greek Cypriot Foreign Minister Kombos

Secretary Rubio's call with Constantinos Kombos, the foreign minister of the Greek Cypriot administration, covered overlapping issues with a regional focus. The two officials talked about the protests in Iran and U.S. counternarcotics operations in the Caribbean region. The conversation also provided an opportunity to discuss shared priorities in light of the Greek Cypriot administration's assumption of the six-month rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, which began in January.

Context of Aligning Policies and Managing Differences

These diplomatic exchanges occur at a time of significant transatlantic discussion and occasional divergence. While the U.S. and its European allies are broadly aligned on issues like supporting Ukraine and monitoring Iran, the unilateral U.S. action in Venezuela has created friction. The calls represent a routine but important effort by the U.S. State Department to maintain open channels, explain policy positions, and coordinate where possible on mutual challenges, from Eurasian security to Caribbean stability.