U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the Trump administration’s commitment to increasing pressure on Moscow during a press briefing on February 25. Responding to questions about potential shifts in U.S. policy, Rubio pointed to recent sanctions imposed on the Russian oil company Rosneft as an example of ongoing efforts.
Rubio highlighted that the U.S. continues to supply arms to Ukraine while refraining from selling weapons to Russia. He noted President Trump’s unique position as a global leader capable of facilitating dialogue between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators. “We are the only country that has managed to bring both sides to the table for discussions,” he stated.
He reiterated that the conflict in Ukraine cannot be resolved through military means, emphasizing the necessity of negotiations. “If we lose our role as a mediator, no one else will be able to step in,” Rubio added.
According to Rubio, U.S. support has been crucial in helping Ukraine withstand the ongoing conflict. He cited the provision of military supplies and intelligence assistance, along with sanctions against Russia, as key factors in Ukraine’s resilience.
Recent trilateral meetings involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia have taken place in January and February, although no concrete outcomes have been reported. However, a notable agreement was reached on February 5 regarding a prisoner exchange, the first in five months.
Stephen Witkoff, a special envoy for President Trump, expressed optimism in a recent Fox News interview, suggesting that positive developments could emerge in the coming weeks. He also indicated the possibility of a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Before negotiations in Geneva on February 17-18, Trump urged Ukraine to engage in discussions promptly, asserting that Russia is inclined to seek an agreement amid the ongoing conflict.
Despite U.S. efforts to mediate a resolution, Russia has shown little willingness to soften its demands, which include Ukraine’s relinquishment of territories in Donbas. Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War have noted that the Kremlin continues to reject Western security guarantees for Ukraine, signaling a commitment to its maximalist objectives in the conflict.
Meanwhile, Ukraine insists on robust security assurances from the U.S. and European allies to safeguard against future Russian aggression.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated the Trump administration's strategy to maintain pressure on Russia while supporting Ukraine. Despite ongoing negotiations, Russia remains firm in its demands, complicating efforts for a peaceful resolution.