U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that neither Ukraine nor Russia possesses the strategic capabilities for a swift end to the war, asserting that the United States will not engage in negotiations indefinitely without progress.
Source: Rubio during his discussion with reporters at Le Bourget Airport in Paris.
Details: He noted that the war has reached a stalemate, and neither side currently has the resources for a quick victory.
Rubio emphasized that delaying peace initiatives will only worsen the humanitarian crisis, and casualties will continue to rise on both sides. He cited the recent missile strike in Sumy on Palm Sunday, which resulted in civilian casualties.
Direct quote: "We need to determine whether this is even possible in the short term. I can tell you this: there is no military solution to this war. There truly is not. Neither side has the strategic potential for a quick resolution. Therefore, we are discussing how to avoid the deaths of thousands and thousands of people over the next year."
Details: According to the Secretary of State, the Trump administration has spent three years and billions of dollars supporting Ukraine and diplomatic efforts. However, the U.S. is not prepared to engage in negotiations indefinitely if the parties do not show a real desire for peace.
"We are willing to work on this as long as necessary, but not indefinitely, not without progress," Rubio stressed.
Background:
- Rubio arrived in Paris on Thursday, April 17, to participate in initial discussions regarding Ukraine involving Americans, Europeans, and Ukrainians at a time when Washington-initiated ceasefire talks are stalling.
- On Friday, April 18, he stated that it is necessary to "determine in the coming days" whether peace in Ukraine is "possible", stressing that "the United States has other priorities".
- Previously, Rubio indicated that the U.S. might abandon efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine if there is no progress in the coming days.
- President Donald Trump confirmed that he could cease attempts to broker a "peace deal" between Ukraine and Russia in the absence of progress, though he did not specify the conditions under which this would occur.