U.S. efforts to broker an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine have “stagnated,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, underscoring the lack of progress in long-running diplomatic efforts.
Speaking to reporters during a visit to Italy, Rubio said U.S.-mediated talks between Kyiv and Moscow had failed to produce results in recent months, while Washington has increasingly turned its attention to other diplomatic priorities, including Iran, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.
“We've tried to play a mediator role in that,” Rubio said. “So far, it has not led to a fruitful outcome for a variety of reasons. We remain prepared to play that role if it can be productive.”
“And while we're prepared to play whatever role we can to bring it to a peaceful diplomatic resolution, unfortunately, right now those efforts have stagnated,” he added. “But we always stand ready if those circumstances change.”
The remarks come as limited diplomatic contacts between the United States and Ukraine continue, with Rustem Umerov, secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council, holding talks with U.S. officials this week.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on May 8 that Ukraine expects to host U.S. envoys in late spring or early summer as part of renewed efforts to restart negotiations.
However, the broader peace track remains stalled. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in April that talks with Ukraine are not currently a priority for Moscow.
Major disagreements continue to block progress, particularly over territorial issues. Ukraine has argued that freezing the current front line could provide a basis for a ceasefire, while Russia has demanded that Ukrainian forces withdraw from parts of Donbas — a condition Kyiv rejects.
By Aghakazim Guliyev
