Rubio, Trump Push for Bold Diplomacy in Russia-Ukraine Conflict

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha discussed efforts for a diplomatic resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war. According to the State Department, Rubio emphasized the importance of bold diplomacy to achieve a negotiated settlement and lasting peace. He also reaffirmed U.S. support for Ukraine's independence.

The discussion followed phone calls between U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. These calls marked Trump's first major step toward diplomacy, aligning with his pledge to end the conflict. Trump stated that Ukraine's NATO membership is impractical and expressed doubts about Ukraine reclaiming all occupied territories.

The conflict began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The U.S. remains committed to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty while pursuing a peaceful resolution.