US Secretary Rubio Congratulates Russians, Supports Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended congratulations to the Russian people on Russia Day, emphasizing the United States' commitment to supporting the Russian populace in their pursuit of a better future and advocating for constructive engagement with Russia to achieve lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. Rubio highlighted hopes that peace would foster more mutually beneficial relations between the U.S. and Russia, marking a shift under President Donald Trump's administration, which prioritizes negotiation over sanctions and military support to Ukraine. Recent negotiations in Istanbul involved Ukraine presenting a memorandum calling for ceasefire and prisoner exchanges, while Russia demanded recognition of certain territories as Russian and Ukraine's neutral status, with Ukrainian President Zelensky describing Russia's demands as an ultimatum. Rubio's statements reflect the Trump administration's focus on diplomacy to resolve the conflict, contrasting with the prior Biden administration's approach of sanctions and political isolation of Russia. The U.S. remains engaged in facilitating dialogue, with Rubio underscoring the importance of direct talks and peace as a foundation for improved bilateral relations.