U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized Washington’s commitment to facilitating an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which he described as both deadly and costly. He noted the significant suffering resulting from the war, stating that the casualty figures on both sides are alarmingly high.
Rubio expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Kyiv, particularly the lack of heat and electricity during the harsh winter months. He remarked, “The situation in Kyiv is horrifying,” underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
He further revealed that President Donald Trump has spent the past year exploring whether the U.S. could act as a mediator in achieving peace through negotiations. “The President has been working at the highest levels of our government to determine if we can facilitate an end to this horrific conflict through dialogue,” Rubio explained.
Efforts to conclude the war have been ongoing since the Trump administration took office, but substantial progress on formal documents began only in November 2025. The initial 28-point peace plan has since been revised into a 20-point framework, which includes provisions for security guarantees and economic prosperity for Ukraine. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning the status of the Donbas region and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
Recent media reports indicate that Ukraine may be preparing for presidential elections and a referendum regarding the peace agreement. Sources from the Financial Times suggest that the Trump administration is pushing for both votes to occur by May 15, warning that Ukraine could forfeit proposed security guarantees if this timeline is not met.
Additionally, Reuters has reported discussions between Ukraine and the U.S. regarding a potential peace agreement with Russia as early as March. However, Ukrainian officials have denied claims made by the Financial Times, while President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly stated that the U.S. is advocating for an end to the conflict by June.
Zelensky also mentioned that a referendum on the peace agreement could take place in the coming months, contingent on a two-month ceasefire being secured by Washington. In 2026, trilateral negotiations involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia were held, with initial meetings taking place in Abu Dhabi in January and February, and a third round scheduled for February 17-18 in Geneva.
During these discussions, the parties are expected to address the operational aspects of a monitoring mission in the event of a ceasefire, as well as proposals for a new energy ceasefire.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reiterated the U.S. commitment to ending the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting ongoing negotiations and the humanitarian crisis. As discussions progress, Ukraine is reportedly preparing for elections and a referendum on peace terms.