In a stark message following critical discussions in Paris, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated a decisive moment may be approaching in ongoing Ukraine war negotiations. With pressure mounting for substantial advancements over the next few days, Rubio warned that the U.S. may step back from its commitment to broker peace if no meaningful compromises are reached.
U.S. Ponders Next Steps in Ukraine War Negotiations: Rubio's Urgent Message
U.S. Ponders Next Steps in Ukraine War Negotiations: Rubio's Urgent Message
As high-stakes talks unfold in Paris, Secretary of State Marco Rubio hints at a potential shift in U.S. policy if progress on Ukraine remains elusive.
During a Thursday meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and European officials, Rubio articulated the need for urgency in the diplomatic efforts surrounding the prolonged conflict. "If it is not possible to end the war in Ukraine, we need to move on," he told the media, emphasizing the administration's approaching deadline for evaluating the viability of negotiations.
These discussions mark a significant attempt to synchronize perspectives between Washington and European capitals regarding the ongoing crisis. While the U.S. holds a prominent role in negotiations with Russia, European nations may exert a stronger influence on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision-making process. Notably, President Trump has expressed skepticism about Zelensky, stating he is "not a big fan."
Rubio highlighted that the U.S. has invested considerable diplomatic energy under Trump's leadership, which he estimates has totaled 87 days, as the administration diligently seeks to de-escalate the conflict that has plagued Ukraine for over three years. "It is not our war. We didn’t start it," Rubio reiterated, stressing the need for a resolution to this international crisis.
Despite the constructive nature of the talks, both Rubio and Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff noted the fragility of the negotiations as conditions from Russian President Vladimir Putin, including territorial concessions and Ukraine's NATO aspirations, remained firmly rejected by Ukraine.
Looking ahead, the officials involved in the Paris summit plan to regroup in London for further discussions, with hopes that collaborative efforts from Britain, France, and Germany can facilitate a closer path to resolution. However, amid the urgency expressed by Trump and his administration, time appears increasingly constrained for achieving a lasting peace.
Roger Cohen covers France and international stories for The Times, drawing on decades of experience in conflict reporting from regions including Ukraine and the Middle East.
These discussions mark a significant attempt to synchronize perspectives between Washington and European capitals regarding the ongoing crisis. While the U.S. holds a prominent role in negotiations with Russia, European nations may exert a stronger influence on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision-making process. Notably, President Trump has expressed skepticism about Zelensky, stating he is "not a big fan."
Rubio highlighted that the U.S. has invested considerable diplomatic energy under Trump's leadership, which he estimates has totaled 87 days, as the administration diligently seeks to de-escalate the conflict that has plagued Ukraine for over three years. "It is not our war. We didn’t start it," Rubio reiterated, stressing the need for a resolution to this international crisis.
Despite the constructive nature of the talks, both Rubio and Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff noted the fragility of the negotiations as conditions from Russian President Vladimir Putin, including territorial concessions and Ukraine's NATO aspirations, remained firmly rejected by Ukraine.
Looking ahead, the officials involved in the Paris summit plan to regroup in London for further discussions, with hopes that collaborative efforts from Britain, France, and Germany can facilitate a closer path to resolution. However, amid the urgency expressed by Trump and his administration, time appears increasingly constrained for achieving a lasting peace.
Roger Cohen covers France and international stories for The Times, drawing on decades of experience in conflict reporting from regions including Ukraine and the Middle East.
