In Washington, DC on February 11, US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff was seen on the left, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was on the right, as captured by Aaron Schwartz/CNP/Bloomberg/Getty Images. When Marco Rubio accepted the position of Secretary of State under President Donald Trump, it was with full awareness of the challenges ahead, as per a source familiar with his mindset. Aware of Trump’s tendency to dismiss top officials via social media and having experienced the nickname “Little Marco,” Rubio ventured into the role with caution.
Despite initially vying for the position of Vice President but ultimately being overlooked in favor of JD Vance, Rubio sought the esteemed role of America’s chief diplomat. What he had not anticipated was the potential for being overshadowed by Trump’s close confidante, real estate mogul and billionaire Steve Witkoff, who has expanded his influence beyond his designated post as special envoy to the Middle East.
In the early months of the second Trump administration, Rubio found himself somewhat overshadowed by Witkoff, who has played a pivotal role in several of Trump’s prominent foreign policy achievements. Witkoff has been instrumental in securing the release of hostages in Israel, brokering a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, and negotiating the return of American detainee Marc Fogel from Russia.
Known for his globe-trotting diplomacy, Witkoff has emerged as a key intermediary in efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine. A recent face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow was part of his endeavors to advance the administration’s proposed ceasefire. With Trump’s unwavering trust in him, Witkoff’s influence on the global stage has been significant.
Meanwhile, Rubio has diligently carried out his duties, embarking on diplomatic missions to Central America to address immigration issues, as well as visiting the Middle East, Europe, and Canada for talks on the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Despite occasional discomfort with certain administration decisions, Rubio has engaged with various international partners, including G7 nations.
Concerns have been raised about Rubio’s standing within the Trump administration, with speculation about his diminished sway. While he was the first cabinet member to receive unanimous confirmation, his role as Secretary of State has not matched the prominence typically enjoyed by his predecessors. Some supporters of the MAGA movement remain skeptical of his foreign policy stance.
Reports suggest that Rubio may be feeling frustrated by these circumstances, as indicated by sources familiar with his sentiments. The unexpected rise of Witkoff has altered the dynamics within the State Department, leaving Rubio somewhat sidelined. Nevertheless, Rubio retains the official trappings of his office, including the ceremonial protocols during official visits abroad.
In a statement to CNN, Witkoff expressed satisfaction with his collaborative working relationship.
Rubio is highly regarded as a Secretary of State, with Witkoff stating, “He is already a great Secretary of State and in my view will go down as one of the greatest.” Witkoff dismissed media rumors, emphasizing that every issue he works on involves collaboration with Marco Rubio. Supporters of Rubio in the administration stress that he and Witkoff complement each other rather than compete, and both the State Department and the White House have refuted claims that Rubio is being overshadowed. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes affirmed Rubio’s importance on President Trump’s national security team, highlighting his contributions to foreign policy initiatives. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized the strong relationship between Rubio and Witkoff in advancing the President’s agenda.
There is speculation in Washington about Rubio’s future in the role, given Trump’s reliance on Witkoff. It is suggested that Rubio may aim to serve for 18 months to two years to enhance his credentials for a potential presidential run in 2028. Some sources suggest that Rubio may focus on areas where he can excel, leaving more contentious issues to the White House. Rubio’s extensive foreign policy experience in the Senate has been influential in his current role as Secretary of State. Despite facing challenges and criticisms, Rubio has played a significant role in diplomatic efforts, including leading a delegation to Saudi Arabia resulting in a ceasefire proposal accepted by Ukraine.
For some seasoned diplomats, watching Rubio navigate his role has been challenging, as he balances the demands of diplomacy with the unique dynamics within the Trump administration.
During last week’s G7 meeting in Quebec, Canada, while Marco Rubio was focusing on engaging with America’s closest allies to address concerns, Steve Witkoff was in Moscow for a one-on-one meeting with Putin. A former senior State Department official familiar with both Rubio and Witkoff commented on how Rubio prioritizes foreign policy, contrasting it with Witkoff’s more casual relationship with Putin, referring to him as a golf buddy. The official found it absurd that Witkoff would have such a meeting at the Kremlin.
The G7 meeting provided Rubio the opportunity to convey the Trump administration’s vision to counterparts directly. However, Trump’s abrupt decisions, such as announcing a significant tariff on European alcohol during the discussions, added complexity to Rubio’s diplomatic efforts. Despite challenges and controversial actions from the White House, Rubio, along with other G7 officials, focused on advancing important issues like a ceasefire in Ukraine, disregarding the distractions created by Trump’s behavior.
Foreign diplomats appreciated Rubio’s diplomatic approach during the G7 meetings, contrasting it with the tumultuous atmosphere within the Trump administration. Despite private frustrations over Trump’s actions, officials praised Rubio for his professional conduct and ability to navigate challenging situations. Rubio’s commitment to supporting Trump’s agenda, along with his diplomatic skills, earned him recognition as a valuable interlocutor among international officials, although questions were raised about his influence on Trump.
In the aftermath of the G7, Rubio’s role within the State Department has received mixed reviews. While some praise his diplomatic expertise, others express concerns about the significant number of diplomatic retirements and the impact on the department.
Due to a freeze, the Department has suspended the foreign service exam and withdrawn offers for an April entry-level class of foreign service officers. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was seen shaking hands with Panama Canal Authority Administrator Ricaurte Vasquez during a tour at the Miraflores locks of the Panama Canal in Panama City on February 2. Despite some pushback against significant cuts by Rubio, there have not been widespread layoffs of State Department personnel yet. While there may still be substantial reductions expected, efforts to shield from immediate and drastic cuts have been recognized by some foreign service officers. However, there is disappointment that Rubio hasn’t played a more moderating role, especially in certain policy areas like the handling of Ukraine. Another challenge Rubio faces is dealing with Trump’s broad suspension of foreign aid, now overseeing a dismantled USAID. Rubio has reportedly dedicated long hours reviewing waiver requests for vital programs, expressing concerns about humanitarian and national security implications. Yet, despite efforts, Rubio implemented a freeze on foreign aid with waivers granted only for life-saving programs. To access more CNN news and newsletters, sign up at CNN.com.
