As Devastation Mounts, U.S. Pushes Negotiations Amid Shifting Political Stances
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Urgent Diplomacy: Rubio Calls for Swift End to Ukraine Conflict |
Rubio stressed that peace hinges on a negotiated settlement, asserting that “both parties must make concessions” to reach an agreement. He pointed to shifting perspectives among Democrats, who had previously pledged unwavering support for Kyiv under President Joe Biden’s administration. Many now acknowledge, according to Rubio, that continued U.S. funding has prolonged a destructive stalemate, with Ukraine progressively losing territory and critical infrastructure.
Criticizing earlier optimism, Rubio dismissed claims that Ukraine could decisively defeat Russia or revert to pre-2014 borders as unrealistic. “The dishonesty,” he argued, lay in fostering expectations of a total Ukrainian victory. He further highlighted the war’s catastrophic impact, noting that Ukraine’s energy systems lie in ruins and millions of citizens have fled, potentially permanently—a crisis threatening the nation’s long-term stability.
Following his recent inauguration, Trump announced readiness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin “at any time” to mediate a resolution. The Kremlin responded that while Putin remains open to dialogue, no formal outreach from Washington has occurred.
Earlier this week, Putin proposed a straightforward path to peace: the U.S. and other backers of Kyiv could halt the conflict by ceasing financial support to President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government. This statement underscores Moscow’s stance that Western aid perpetuates the war rather than hastening its end.