The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to brokering peace between Russia and Ukraine, despite suggestions that it may scale back its mediation efforts. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Washington will continue to work towards a peaceful resolution, but warned that if talks remain stagnant, the US may be forced to reassess its approach. “We’re not going to give up on it in the sense that we’re not going to be ready to help if we can,” Rubio said in an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity.
Rubio’s comments came after State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce indicated that the US might “step back as a mediator” if there is no progress between Russia and Ukraine. However, Bruce later clarified that the administration’s posture remains unchanged, but may shift if progress is not made. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which escalated in 2022 under the Biden administration, is considered a lower priority by the US compared to its confrontations with China and Iran’s nuclear program.
US President Donald Trump has been pushing for a ceasefire between Moscow and Kiev since returning to office in January, but has recently expressed frustration over the lack of progress. Moscow has expressed willingness to engage in direct talks with Kiev “without preconditions,” and President Vladimir Putin has ordered a 72-hour ceasefire during next week’s Victory Day celebrations. However, Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky has rejected the offer, labeling it “an attempt at manipulation.”
The situation remains complex, with the US walking a fine line between supporting Ukraine and avoiding escalation with Russia. Rubio stressed that the conflict “is not our war,” and that the US will prioritize its own interests and security concerns. As the diplomatic efforts continue, it remains to be seen whether the US can facilitate a breakthrough in the stalled talks between Russia and Ukraine. With the international community watching closely, the US will need to balance its commitment to peace with the realities of a rapidly changing global landscape.
