Trump eyes Marco Rubio for secretary of state, say sources

Donald Trump is planning to nominate US senator Marco Rubio as secretary of state, positioning the Florida-born politician to become the first Latino to serve as America's chief diplomat when the Republican president-elect assumes office in January.

Historically, Rubio has been considered the most assertive candidate on Trump's secretary of state shortlist, previously advocating for strong foreign policy approaches towards nations like China, Iran and Cuba.

In recent years, he has adjusted his positions to better align with Trump's perspectives. The president-elect criticises previous US administrations for engaging in costly wars and advocates for a more limited foreign policy approach.

Sources speaking anonymously about private discussions indicated that whilst Trump is known for last-minute changes, he appeared to have made his decision by Monday.

The incoming administration faces significant global challenges, with ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, whilst China strengthens its ties with Russia and Iran.

Ukraine will be a priority issue for Rubio. The 53-year-old senator has recently suggested Ukraine should pursue diplomatic solutions with Russia rather than focus on territorial recovery. He was among 15 Republican senators who opposed a $95 billion Ukraine military aid package in April.

"I'm not on Russia's side — but unfortunately the reality of it is that the way the war in Ukraine is going to end is with a negotiated settlement," Rubio told NBC in September.

The selection carries both international and domestic significance. Trump's victory over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris on November 5 was partly attributed to increased Latino support, a demographic showing growing political diversity with increasing Republican voters.

Regarding China, Rubio maintains a firm stance. In 2019, he initiated a national security review of TikTok's Musical.ly acquisition. As the leading Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee, he continues to press for restrictions on Huawei.

Being of Cuban descent, with his grandfather leaving Cuba in 1962, Rubio strongly opposes normalising relations with the Cuban government, aligning with Trump's position. He also frequently criticises Venezuela's Maduro government in his role overseeing Latin American affairs.