Additional Coverage:
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signaled a potential shift in US policy regarding the Russia-Ukraine peace talks on Friday. Speaking in Paris following discussions with European officials and Ukrainian representatives, Rubio warned that the US may “move on” if significant progress isn’t achieved in the coming days.
Rubio’s statement follows months of unsuccessful attempts to broker a peace deal. While a recent meeting yielded a potential roadmap for peace and a follow-up meeting is scheduled for next week in London, the Secretary of State expressed skepticism. He stated the need to assess the viability of continued US involvement, emphasizing other priorities demanding the nation’s attention.
Despite the apparent pessimism, Rubio described the recent talks as “constructive,” noting that all parties remained engaged. He also expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of European allies, highlighting the potential roles of the UK, France, and Germany in advancing the peace process.
Rubio’s remarks coincide with ongoing negotiations between the US and Ukraine regarding access to Ukraine’s mineral resources, a matter reportedly linked to President Trump’s peace initiative.
This latest development comes amidst escalating trade tensions. Last month, Rubio indicated the potential for new bilateral trade agreements with various countries, following the Trump administration’s imposition of tariffs on numerous nations.
This followed President Trump’s threat of increased tariffs on European goods, further fueling concerns about a potential global trade war and its impact on financial markets. Rubio affirmed the US commitment to retaliate against any retaliatory tariffs imposed by other nations.
He emphasized the global nature of the trade situation and the potential for future bilateral negotiations based on principles of “fairness and reciprocity.”