Aaj Ki Janta

PARIS – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signaled on Friday that the United States may soon “move on” from its efforts to mediate a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, citing months of limited progress and growing frustration within the Trump administration.

Speaking after a high-level meeting in Paris involving US, Ukrainian, and European officials, Rubio suggested the upcoming round of talks in London could be the deciding factor. “We are now reaching a point where we need to decide whether this is even possible or not,” Rubio said. “Because if it’s not, then I think we’re just going to move on.”

He added pointedly, “It’s not our war. We have other priorities to focus on.”

The remarks mark a sharp tone from Washington, reflecting a shift in strategic patience amid continued diplomatic deadlock. However, Rubio described the Paris talks as “constructive,” noting no party walked out or rejected the dialogue. He confirmed briefing Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the proposals discussed but declined to share Lavrov’s reaction.

This diplomatic crossroads coincides with a breakthrough in a long-pending US-Ukraine minerals deal. President Donald Trump announced Thursday, “We have a minerals deal,” while Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko confirmed that a memorandum of intent had been signed with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The deal is seen as a key component of broader US-Ukraine cooperation and may influence future geopolitical alignments.

The mineral agreement, which had previously stalled after a tense Oval Office meeting involving Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appears to have regained momentum following recent diplomatic efforts.

European partners—particularly the UK, France, and Germany—played an active role in the discussions, seeking clarity on the Trump administration’s commitment to regional stability. Rubio acknowledged their contributions, stating, “The UK and France and Germany can help us move the ball on this.”

Although security guarantees for Ukraine were discussed, Rubio refrained from disclosing specific American commitments. Analysts argue that sustained US involvement remains crucial to prevent renewed Russian aggression and ensure any eventual peace deal holds firm.