Statement from Secretary Rubio and NSC Waltz on Call with Zelenskyy
March 19, 2025
Action Summary
- High-Level Diplomatic Engagement: President Trump and President Zelenskyy held a productive phone call, building on their earlier meetings in Jeddah to work toward ending the war.
- Military and Defense Cooperation: Ukraine expressed gratitude for the initial provision of Javelin missiles and requested additional air defense systems (notably Patriot missile systems) to protect civilians, with plans to share battlefield information regarding the Kursk situation with Russia.
- Ceasefire Initiatives: Both leaders agreed on establishing a partial energy ceasefire and set plans for technical teams to meet in Saudi Arabia. Discussions include broadening the ceasefire to the Black Sea as a step toward a full cessation of hostilities.
- Energy and Infrastructure Support: President Trump offered U.S. assistance with Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plant operations, suggesting that American management could best protect critical energy infrastructure.
- Humanitarian Efforts: The conversation highlighted successful POW exchanges, and there was a commitment to address the issue of missing and abducted children from Ukraine.
- Coordinated Implementation: Both presidents recognized the pivotal roles of senior advisors, including Secretary Rubio, National Security Advisor Waltz, and Special Envoy Kellogg, and instructed their teams to expedite efforts on ceasefire and other technical issues.
Risks & Considerations
- The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the involvement of the United States in peace negotiations could impact international relations and geopolitical stability. This may affect Vanderbilt University’s international collaborations and partnerships, particularly those involving European and Eastern European institutions.
- The focus on energy infrastructure and potential American ownership of Ukrainian power plants could lead to shifts in energy policy and international business relations. Vanderbilt may need to consider how these changes could influence its research and educational programs related to energy and international business.
- Humanitarian concerns, such as the exchange of POWs and the return of missing children, highlight the importance of human rights and international law. Vanderbilt’s programs in law, human rights, and international relations may need to address these issues in their curricula and research initiatives.
- The emphasis on defense and military support, including the provision of air defense systems, could lead to increased focus on defense-related research and development. Vanderbilt’s engineering and technology programs may find opportunities for collaboration with defense agencies and contractors.
Impacted Programs
- Vanderbilt Law School may see increased interest in international law and human rights, providing opportunities for research and advocacy related to the conflict in Ukraine and its humanitarian implications.
- School of Engineering could benefit from potential collaborations in defense technology and energy infrastructure, aligning with national priorities in these areas.
- Peabody College of Education and Human Development might explore educational initiatives focused on peacebuilding and conflict resolution, contributing to global efforts for lasting peace.
- The Office of International Affairs may need to reassess partnerships and collaborations with institutions in regions affected by the conflict, ensuring alignment with evolving geopolitical dynamics.
Financial Impact
- Changes in international relations and energy policy could influence funding opportunities for research and development in related fields, potentially affecting Vanderbilt’s grant application strategies.
- Increased focus on defense and military support may lead to new funding streams for research in engineering and technology, providing financial opportunities for relevant programs at Vanderbilt.
- Humanitarian efforts and international law initiatives may attract philanthropic support and grants, benefiting programs focused on these areas.
- Vanderbilt may need to consider the financial implications of potential shifts in international student enrollment and partnerships, particularly with institutions in Europe and Eastern Europe.
Relevance Score: 3 (The situation presents moderate risks involving compliance, ethics, and potential shifts in international collaborations and research focus.)
Key Actions
- Vanderbilt’s International Relations Department should monitor developments in U.S.-Ukraine relations, particularly regarding energy infrastructure and defense collaborations. Understanding these dynamics can inform research and educational programs related to international diplomacy and conflict resolution.
- The Vanderbilt Institute for Energy and Environment could explore opportunities for collaboration with U.S. agencies involved in Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This could include research on energy security and the role of American expertise in international energy projects.
- Vanderbilt’s Human Rights and Humanitarian Studies Program should consider examining the humanitarian aspects of the U.S.-Ukraine collaboration, particularly in areas such as POW exchanges and the protection of civilians. This could enhance the university’s contributions to global human rights discourse.
Opportunities
- The focus on energy infrastructure presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering to engage in research and development projects related to nuclear power and energy systems. Collaborations with government agencies could lead to advancements in energy technology and infrastructure resilience.
- Vanderbilt can leverage its expertise in international law and policy to contribute to discussions on ceasefire agreements and conflict resolution strategies. Hosting forums or workshops on these topics could position the university as a leader in peace and security studies.
- The emphasis on humanitarian concerns offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Center for Medicine, Health, and Society to engage in research on the health impacts of conflict and the role of international aid in post-conflict recovery. This could lead to partnerships with global health organizations and agencies.
Relevance Score: 3 (The statement highlights potential areas for research and collaboration that could require some adjustments to Vanderbilt’s programs and partnerships.)
Timeline for Implementation
- Technical teams meet in Saudi Arabia “in the coming days.”
- Advisors and representatives are instructed to address technical issues “as quickly as possible.”
These directives imply an immediate, urgent response without a fixed number of days, qualifying as less than 30 days.
Relevance Score: 5
Impacted Government Organizations
- The White House: As the central executive office issuing and coordinating the statement, it directs diplomatic and strategic initiatives.
- National Security Council (NSC): Represented by National Security Advisor Waltz, the NSC is pivotal in coordinating national security and military-related policy responses.
- Department of Defense (DoD): Involved through discussions of military support mechanisms such as Javelin missiles and Patriot air defense systems, the DoD is a key player in implementing the defense aspects of the conversation.
- Department of Energy (DOE): Highlighted by the discussion on Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plants, the DOE’s expertise in electricity and utilities is considered essential for protecting energy infrastructure.
- Office of the Special Envoy: Through the participation of Special Envoy Kellogg and others, this office is tasked with advancing diplomatic efforts and technical coordination related to ceasefire negotiations.
Relevance Score: 2 (A moderate number of Federal Agencies are impacted by the statement.)
Responsible Officials
- Technical Teams & Advisors – Under direct instruction from President Trump and President Zelenskyy, these groups (including noted officials such as Secretary Rubio, National Security Advisor Waltz, and Special Envoy Kellogg) are charged with addressing the technical issues related to expanding the partial ceasefire, coordinating on energy and infrastructure support, and managing humanitarian efforts.
Relevance Score: 5 (Directives are issued by top-level presidents and involve White House/Cabinet-level officials and their senior advisors.)