U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Thursday, April 17, that if ending the war in Ukraine proves unfeasible, the U.S. might need to step back and redirect its focus. “If it is not possible to end the war in Ukraine, we need to move on,” Rubio told reporters before departing Paris. He stressed the urgency of making this decision “in a matter of days.”
His comments followed meetings with European and Ukrainian allies, as the Trump administration pushes for an end to Russia’s invasion. According to the State Department, a U.S.-drafted peace plan received a “positive reception” during discussions, though no details were revealed. Rubio also shared the plan with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
Rubio underscored the importance of clarity:
“We came to Paris to begin outlining what it might take to end the war. If we’re too far apart, then the president is ready to say we’re done.”
He added, “It’s not our war. We didn’t start it. We’ve supported Ukraine for three years, but we want it to end.”
He also highlighted President Trump’s personal involvement:
“President Trump has spent 87 days working at the highest level to find a resolution. We’re now at a critical point, which is why we’re speaking with both sides.”
Meanwhile, Russia launched a missile attack on Kharkiv overnight, hitting a residential area. One person died and at least 67 were injured. Some remain trapped under rubble.
Rubio’s comments came shortly after the U.S. and Ukraine advanced talks on a minerals agreement. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced the signing of a Memorandum of Intent, laying the groundwork for a future Economic Partnership Agreement and an Investment Fund for Ukraine’s reconstruction.
She noted that while much remains to be done—including finalising and ratifying the agreement—the pace of progress is encouraging. Talks had previously stalled due to a disagreement between Presidents Zelensky and Trump, but negotiations have now resumed with Treasury officials meeting a Ukrainian delegation in Washington.
