Rubio Skips Ukraine Peace Talks in London, Kellogg Represents US

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have declined to attend upcoming peace talks in London aimed at addressing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce citing scheduling conflicts for Rubio. The United States will instead be represented by General Keith Kellogg, President Trump's envoy for Ukraine, who is tasked with maintaining American engagement in the negotiations. The U.S. reportedly plans to propose recognizing Russia's annexation of Crimea and freezing the current front line in exchange for a ceasefire, lifting sanctions on Russia, and providing Ukraine with security guarantees and reconstruction support. Ukrainian President Zelensky has firmly rejected any peace terms that acknowledge Russia's occupation of Crimea. Witkoff's controversial stance on territorial concessions has created tension within the Trump administration's Ukraine policy team. Despite Rubio's absence, U.S. officials assert that their commitment to the talks and the peace process remains unchanged.