U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares emphasized the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine during Thursday's bilateral talks at the State Department, according to an official U.S. statement.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Conflict Resolution

   • Agreed on enhanced coordination to address:
     ✓ Middle East instability
     ✓ Russia's war in Ukraine

2. Defense Cooperation

   • Rubio praised Spain's commitment to reach 2% defense spending by 2025 (NATO target)

   • Highlighted joint efforts to combat irregular migration flows

3. Trade Policy

   • Discussed President Trump's "decisive action" to address:

     • U.S.-EU trade deficit

     • Market access barriers

Diplomatic Context:

• Meeting occurred ahead of upcoming NATO summit in Madrid

• Spain currently serves as non-permanent UNSC member

• Follows recent U.S.-EU consultations on Ukraine aid package

Official Statements:

"Our nations stand united in pursuing peace through sustained diplomacy, while ensuring collective security."
– State Department Spokesperson