U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on May 8 that the United States is prepared to continue its role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, although he acknowledged that current diplomatic efforts have reached an impasse.
In an interview with Radio Free Europe, Rubio emphasized that Washington does not wish to expend resources on mediation if it does not advance negotiations. He remarked, “We have tried to play a mediating role in this matter, but it has not yielded productive results for various reasons. We remain ready to play this role if it proves fruitful… Our position ultimately is that this war is a tragedy. Both sides are paying a very high price, economically and, of course, in human terms… Every time I hear about these things (strikes and casualties), it simply reminds us of why this war must end, and while we are ready to play any role we can to achieve a peaceful diplomatic resolution, unfortunately, you know that these efforts have currently hit a dead end, but we are always ready, and these circumstances change,” Rubio stated.
Earlier the same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a visit by representatives of the U.S. President to Kyiv is anticipated in late spring or early summer, with schedules currently being coordinated. This information followed a briefing from National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov regarding his meetings in the United States.
Zelensky expressed hope that this time they could “realize the planned and activate diplomacy.”
On May 7, the President’s Office confirmed Umerov’s trip to the United States, where he is expected to meet with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Miami, as reported by Bloomberg citing sources.
On April 29, a phone conversation lasting one and a half hours took place between the U.S. and Russian presidents. U.S. President Donald Trump described the discussion with Vladimir Putin as “very good,” mentioning that Ukraine and Iran were among the topics addressed. During this call, Trump stated he proposed a “small ceasefire” in Ukraine.
Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has emphasized the need for a swift conclusion to the war in Ukraine. The U.S. has acted as a mediator during a series of negotiations that have yet to result in a ceasefire. A primary sticking point remains territorial issues, with Russia insisting on control over the entire Donetsk region as a condition for dialogue, which Ukraine finds unacceptable.
The last direct trilateral negotiations occurred in February, with contacts having paused following the onset of military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran.
Last week, the Kyiv Independent reported that U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are hesitant to visit Kyiv due to rising concerns in Washington that renewed participation in peace talks may again yield minimal results. The realities of traveling to Ukraine during wartime also present challenges, with sources indicating that transportation issues complicate Witkoff’s potential visit.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the U.S.'s readiness to mediate in the Ukraine conflict, despite acknowledging a deadlock in current diplomatic efforts. Meanwhile, President Zelensky anticipates a visit from U.S. representatives to Kyiv as diplomatic discussions continue.