Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism on Wednesday about the potential for a cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine, suggesting that an agreement could be reached within “days” if Russian leaders are willing. He indicated plans to engage diplomats from the Group of 7 allied nations in discussions aimed at ending the conflict during a meeting in Canada this week.
Rubio outlined a vision for the immediate future where hostilities cease, stating, “Neither side is shooting at each other — not rockets, not missiles, not bullets, nothing, not artillery.” His remarks came during a refueling stop in Ireland as he traveled from Saudi Arabia to Canada.
He also downplayed concerns about potential hostility from American allies due to President Trump’s recent tariffs and expressed confidence in having cordial discussions with Canadian officials, despite Trump’s controversial remarks about annexing Canada. “That’s not what we’re going to discuss at the G7,” he said, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the meeting.
Rubio and White House National Security Adviser Michael Waltz recently met with Ukrainian officials in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to initiate negotiations with Russia. Hostilities have been ongoing since 2014, following Russia’s annexation of Crimea and a full-scale invasion in 2022. Ukrainian officials reported an agreement on a 30-day interim cease-fire following the meeting.
U.S. officials plan to connect with Russian representatives to discuss the cease-fire proposal. Rubio remarked that a negative response from Russia “would be highly unfortunate” and clarify their intentions.
During prior discussions with Russian officials, Rubio noted a willingness among them to consider a settlement to the conflict under unspecified conditions. At the upcoming G7 meeting, he aims to unite the member countries in promoting peace talks.
Rubio articulated that an ideal outcome from the meeting would be a joint statement encouraging Russia to consider ending hostilities to save lives and initiate a peace process. Key issues for Ukrainian officials in any negotiations include prisoner exchanges, the return of abducted children, and humanitarian aid.
When questioned about Ukraine’s requests for security guarantees, Rubio emphasized that deterrence must be a component of any enduring peace agreement. He acknowledged that a commercial minerals agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine could be beneficial but would not serve as a deterrent against Russian aggression.
He further mentioned that European security commitments to Ukraine would also be part of peace discussions, although the timeline for increased European involvement remains uncertain. Rubio suggested that discussions may include the topic of European sanctions imposed on Russia and the status of frozen assets.
While the foreign ministers meet in Quebec City to discuss the war, the ongoing challenges arising from Trump’s approach to U.S. alliances and tariffs will also be addressed. Rubio clarified that Trump’s tariffs aim to bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities, particularly in defense sectors.
Canadian officials are responding to these tariffs and Trump’s statements regarding annexation, which Rubio described as stemming from economic and security considerations. “He’s made an argument that it’s their interest to do so,” Rubio noted, acknowledging that Canadians have a different perspective.