Challenges in Ukrainian Peace Talks
19 April 2025 09:12
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that neither the Ukrainian nor the Russian side possesses the capabilities for a swift end to the conflict, and the United States will not engage in negotiations indefinitely without visible progress.
Source: Rubio during a press briefing at Le Bourget Airport in Paris.
According to Rubio, the war has reached a deadlock, and neither side currently has the necessary resources for a quick victory.
He emphasized that delays in peace initiatives will only worsen the humanitarian crisis, with casualties rising on both sides. He cited a recent missile strike in Sumy on Palm Sunday that resulted in civilian casualties.
Direct quote: "We need to determine whether achieving peace is possible in the short term. I can tell you this: this war has no military solution. None of the sides possess the strategic capability for a rapid resolution. Therefore, we are discussing how to prevent the loss of thousands of lives over the coming year. We are trying to avoid that."
Rubio stated that the Trump administration has already spent three years and billions of dollars supporting Ukraine and diplomatic efforts. However, the U.S. is not prepared to participate in negotiations indefinitely without real efforts towards peace.
"We are willing to engage as long as necessary, but not indefinitely, not without progress," Rubio stressed.
Background:
- Rubio arrived in Paris on April 17 to participate in initial discussions on Ukraine with Americans, Europeans, and Ukrainians while ceasefire talks initiated by Washington are stalling.
- On April 18, he stated that it is necessary to "determine in the coming days" whether peace is achievable in Ukraine, highlighting that "the United States has other priorities."
- Earlier, Rubio indicated that the U.S. might abandon efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine if no progress is seen in the "coming days."
- U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that he might drop attempts to forge a "peace deal" between Ukraine and Russia if there is no progress, although he did not specify the conditions under which this would occur.