The United States may withdraw from mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict if no progress is made within the next few days, warned U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking after a meeting in Paris with European and Ukrainian leaders, Rubio emphasized that the U.S. will not continue efforts indefinitely.
Rubio stated, “We need to know within a few days whether a resolution is possible in the coming weeks. If the positions of both sides remain too far apart, President Donald Trump may decide to pull out.”
Although some signs of progress have emerged, diplomatic sources report that Russia’s rigid stance is increasing frustration in the White House. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged limited progress but noted difficulties in communicating with Washington. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to resolving the conflict in line with its national interests and expressed willingness to negotiate.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, during a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome, expressed hope that the U.S. could help end the war.
The Paris meeting marked the first high-level direct discussion under Trump’s peace initiative involving major European powers. Rubio’s proposed peace framework received positive responses, with Ukrainian President Zelensky’s office calling the discussions constructive.
Rubio also briefed Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov about the peace framework. However, Russia has set conditions for a settlement, including Ukraine renouncing its NATO ambitions, ceding four occupied regions, and reducing its military size. Kyiv considers these demands as terms of surrender.
Rubio stressed that Europe must play a central role in any agreement, especially regarding the lifting of sanctions on Russia. Ukraine’s security was also discussed, and Rubio believes a mutually acceptable solution is possible. Still, he warned that greater challenges lie ahead.
If the U.S. withdraws, the peace process may collapse, as no other country can exert equal pressure on both Moscow and Kyiv. The U.S. could either maintain its current stance—supporting Ukraine and enforcing sanctions on Russia—or Trump could decide to halt aid to Ukraine.
Rubio concluded, “A peace deal will be difficult but not impossible. However, we must see signs of progress within days to determine if a short-term resolution is feasible. Otherwise, we will move in a different direction.”