Rubio urges concessions amid cautious optimism on Ukraine war
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that while there are some reasons for cautious optimism about ending the war in Ukraine, the situation remains complex and challenging. He emphasized that both parties involved must be prepared to make compromises.
What do you need to know?
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism about the end of the war in Ukraine after a meeting of foreign ministers in Canada.
- President Donald Trump discussed territorial issues with Ukraine, including the future of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
- National Security Advisor Mike Waltz confirmed that considerations are being made about giving Donbas to Russia and excluding Ukraine from NATO.
Rubio on the prospects of ending the conflict
After the conclusion of the G7 foreign ministers summit in Canada, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that, although the situation in Ukraine is difficult, there are reasons for cautious optimism. Rubio noted that both sides of the conflict must make concessions, though he did not specify what those might be.
- I think there is reason to be cautiously optimistic. But by the same token, we continue to recognize this is a difficult and complex situation - said Rubio.
Will Ukraine relinquish occupied territories?
During talks with Ukraine, President Donald Trump raised territorial issues, including the future of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz agreed with a Fox News journalist that the final agreement could include giving Donbas to Russia and excluding Ukraine from NATO. - You are not mistaken on any of these matters. And importantly, we are discussing all these issues with both sides - confirmed Waltz.
Striving for a ceasefire
Rubio highlighted that for negotiations to begin, it is necessary for the fighting to stop.
- We believe it's very difficult to negotiate peace when shootings and attacks are still ongoing. So we're focusing on what we can do to stop that to the largest extent possible - he said.
The final statement from the G7 summit confirmed unwavering support for Ukraine, although it did not include a condemnation of Russian aggression. It also included a pledge of additional sanctions if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire.
