US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed the opinion that Ukraine and Russia cannot reach an agreement regarding 20% of the Donbas territory. In an interview on Fox News, he pointed out that the main subject of disagreement lies in those parts of the Donetsk region that remain under the control of Kyiv. Rubio added that the US aims to bring the positions of both sides closer together.
Rubio noted that the primary goal is to end the war, ensure that Ukraine is no longer attacked, guarantee its long-term independence, and create conditions for its prosperity. “The question is: what concessions are Ukraine and Russia willing to make? This is not our war. American soldiers are not involved in a conflict that is unfolding on another continent. We are involved because we are the only ones who can communicate with both sides, while European countries and China cannot,” he said.
The Secretary emphasized that it is important to understand whether it is possible to end the conflict and “protect the future of Ukraine in a way that satisfies both sides.” He added that Vladimir Putin must make the decision on the Russian side, as he is the one capable of ending this conflict.
Rubio also noted that some suggest that the US should negotiate only with the Ukrainians and avoid communication with the Russians. However, he emphasized: “It is impossible to end the war between Russia and Ukraine without dialogue with Russia.”
