News|Russia-Ukraine warRubio says ‘progress but ways to go’ in efforts to end Russia-Ukraine warUS top diplomat’s remarks come as Ukraine negotiators travel to US for new round of talks on ending the conflict.
Recent developments indicate progress in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have traveled to the United States for a new round of negotiations aimed at ending the nearly four-year war. These…
Recent developments indicate progress in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have traveled to the United States for a new round of negotiations aimed at ending the nearly four-year war. These discussions are taking place amid a diplomatic push by the United States, led by President Donald Trump, to facilitate a resolution to the conflict.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated at a year-end news conference in Washington, DC, that the United States is not imposing a deal on either side. Instead, efforts are focused on determining what is acceptable to both Ukraine and Russia to drive them toward a mutually agreeable solution. While progress has been reported, Rubio emphasized that significant challenges remain, particularly concerning the most difficult issues.
The head of the Ukrainian delegation, Rustem Umerov, has confirmed that Ukraine's European partners are involved in the process. He indicated that preliminary consultations with European colleagues have been conducted, and further discussions with the American side are planned. Umerov stressed the importance of ensuring Ukraine’s long-term security.
The White House envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with Jared Kushner, held discussions in Berlin with Ukrainian and European officials. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that several documents have been agreed upon, including a 20-point peace framework, security guarantees, and a reconstruction plan for Ukraine. However, final proposals have yet to be agreed upon, as territorial issues remain unresolved.
Recent developments indicate progress in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded that Ukraine cede territories in four key regions, as well as Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014. Additionally, Putin requires Ukrainian military withdrawal from parts of eastern Ukraine not yet occupied by Russian forces. These conditions have been rejected by Kyiv.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, fighting continues in the eastern Donetsk region. Zelenskyy has indicated a willingness to forgo Ukraine's ambition to join NATO in exchange for Western security guarantees, a decision welcomed by the Kremlin. However, the conflict persists on the ground.
Secretary of State Rubio noted that wars typically conclude through either surrender or a negotiated settlement. As a surrender appears unlikely, a negotiated resolution remains the viable path to ending the conflict. Ultimately, the decision rests with Ukraine and Russia.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.