The United States will likely cease its efforts to mediate a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine within days unless there are clear signs that a deal is possible, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Good Friday during a press briefing in Paris. His comments followed meetings with European and Ukrainian officials.
Rubio confirmed that President Donald Trump remains interested in brokering a peace deal, but emphasized that the president is focused on numerous other global priorities and is ready to move on unless meaningful progress is evident.
“We need to determine in the coming days whether peace is achievable or not,” Rubio told reporters. “If it’s not possible, we must turn to other matters. The United States has other priorities.”
He also highlighted the potential role of key European allies in advancing the peace process, suggesting that London, Paris, and Berlin could help move negotiations forward.
“I believe the United Kingdom, France, and Germany can assist in pushing things ahead and bringing us closer to a resolution of the conflict,” Rubio said. “I found their ideas very helpful and constructive.”
The Secretary of State made his remarks before departing for Washington from Paris-Le Bourget Airport.
In response to Senator Rubio’s comments, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged that some progress had already been made toward a peace settlement, according to Reuters. However, he noted that maintaining contact with Washington has proven challenging.
Peskov emphasized that Russia is committed to resolving the conflict, but stressed the importance of protecting its national interests. Despite the tensions, he said Moscow remains open to dialogue with the United States.
