**Russia’s War in Ukraine: A “Proxy War”?**
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Russia’s war against Ukraine is a “proxy war” between Moscow and Washington. This means that the conflict is not just between Russia and Ukraine, but also involves the US and its interests.
Rubio made these comments during an interview with Fox News on March 5. He said that the US has been providing weapons to Ukraine since the start of the war, but has never sent troops. Rubio also stated that continuing to give Ukraine weapons is “not a strategy”.
**Trump’s Views on the War**
US President Donald Trump sees the war in Ukraine as a “protracted, stalemated conflict”. Rubio said that Trump believes the US should engage both Russia and Ukraine in resolving the war. However, he blamed Ukraine’s president for “undermining” Trump’s plan.
**International Reactions**
The Lithuanian parliament voted to exit a treaty last July, leading to Vilnius submitting documents for withdrawal. The deadline expired on March 6.
Other international leaders have expressed concerns about US policy shifts. Polish Deputy Prime Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski said that he cannot imagine a situation in which business relations between Poland and the US would be suddenly interrupted.
Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair said that Canada is willing to participate in resolving the conflict, but requires security guarantees from the US. EU officials are discussing a unified response to another large influx of refugees from Ukraine.
**US Policy Shifts**
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on March 5 that the Trump administration must adhere to a lower court ruling restarting payments for USAID projects worth nearly $2 billion.
French President Emmanuel Macron said that he will start strategic discussions with European countries about defending the continent with nuclear weapons.
US President Donald Trump may lift restrictions on military support for Ukraine once peace talks are arranged.
