Secretary Rubio, speaking in Paris, indicated that if there is no clear sign of a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, they may consider ending their mediation efforts.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a press conference this morning in Paris following discussions regarding the Russia-Ukraine war. Before leaving Paris and speaking to the press, Secretary Rubio stated, “We need to decide whether it is possible to end the war in Ukraine.” Pointing to upcoming discussions on the matter, Rubio mentioned President Donald Trump, saying, “If this is not possible, the President will likely say ‘Our job is done.'”

If both sides are serious about peace, Rubio expressed willingness to help avoid thousands of deaths next year in Ukraine. He stated, “If both sides are serious about peace, then we want to help; otherwise, we will move forward.” Rubio also suggested that they may cease mediation efforts for a peace agreement if there are no clear signals of one. He emphasized, “If peace is not possible in Ukraine, we need to know now.” Rubio also mentioned that he had a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov yesterday, informing Lavrov that Russia should be aware of France and the UK’s constructive efforts.

WHO ATTENDED THE MEETING? The meeting held at the Elysee Palace on Thursday, April 17, included French President Emmanuel Macron, US Secretary of State Rubio, US Special Representative for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, Ukrainian Special Representative Keith Kellogg, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell, and German Federal Chancellery Advisor Jens Plötner.

MACRON: MEETINGS WILL CONTINUE IN LONDON Macron, in a statement on X social media account regarding the meeting discussing the Russia-Ukraine war, expressed gratitude to the officials involved, emphasizing everyone’s desire for peace. Macron noted that they had supported US President Trump’s proposal to end the war as quickly as possible, highlighting European willingness to work with the US on this matter. He stated, “Today, we began a positive and constructive meeting to achieve a ceasefire, and a comprehensive and lasting peace.” Macron also mentioned speaking with Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski before and after the meeting, announcing that discussions regarding Ukraine will continue in London starting next week.