Rubio says Gulf talks were 'frank' as US seeks regional backing US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has declined to reveal what concerns Gulf leaders raised during meetings on his regional tour, saying only that the discussions were candid and constructive. Speaking to reporters, Rubio said Washington had "very frank" conversations with its longstanding allies as it sought their views on the US-Iran agreement and wider regional issues. "That's what we're here to do, get their input," Rubio said.