Potential Resolution in Ukraine-Russia Conflict
Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked on Monday that if the situation between Ukraine and Russia appears to be “securely moving forward,” there might be a chance for an official end to the conflict.
During a meeting with global leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, President Donald Trump discussed ongoing tensions. Fox News’ Jesse Watters questioned Rubio about Ukraine’s need to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin’s territorial demands.
Rubio responded, emphasizing that negotiations tend to be more effective when conducted personally. “When there’s a deal, I’ll certainly explain it to you,” he said, suggesting that those involved must feel safe about their future. He implied that they need assurance that they won’t face invasion again after the war concludes. “That seems like common sense to me,” he added, though he acknowledged that achieving an agreement would require concessions from both sides, indicating that no one party would gain everything they wanted.
Trump’s discussions with global leaders followed a summit with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, just days prior. Despite Trump’s insistence on finding peace, Putin seemed hesitant to engage in meaningful dialogue with Ukraine.
After consulting with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkov on August 6, reports indicated that Putin might consider halting the war if he could retain control over the Russian-speaking Donbas region. However, Zelensky rejected this idea, cautioning that “For the Russians, Donbas is the bridgehead for a new attack in the future.”
Rubio recognized that each side would have to make concessions, albeit drawing those lines could prove complicated. He argued that a resolution to the war requires both dialogue and tough decisions, remarking that unconditional surrenders are rare.
Ultimately, the specifics of what may be proposed in any negotiations between Ukraine and Russia remain unclear. Following the Alaska meeting, both Trump and Putin suggested that while no formal agreements were established, discussions were progressing positively. Trump also mentioned an upcoming meeting between Zelensky and Putin, hinting that he might join as well.
