US, Russia Discuss New Ukraine Peace Approach in Malaysia

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Malaysia to discuss potential new proposals aimed at resolving the war in Ukraine. Rubio described the talks as frank and important, highlighting that Lavrov presented a "new and different approach" which Rubio plans to deliver to President Donald Trump for consideration. Despite this, Rubio emphasized that the idea does not guarantee peace and expressed frustration with Russia's lack of flexibility in ending the conflict. President Trump has been increasingly disappointed with Russian President Vladimir Putin's reluctance to engage in peace efforts, though the U.S. remains open to diplomatic engagement. The U.S. State Department clarified that the final decision on how to proceed rests with President Trump after reviewing the Russian proposals. Both Rubio and the State Department underlined the need for a clear roadmap to conclude the conflict in Ukraine.