**US Secretary of State Rubio to Visit Turkey Amid Renewed Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks**
The United States is taking a crucial step in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Turkey next week as part of a wider diplomatic push to resolve the war. This development comes at a pivotal moment, with Russia suggesting a renewed peace process.
**A Suggested Restart to Peace Talks**
Russia has proposed restarting peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul starting May 15th. However, this offer is conditional and does not include an unconditional 30-day ceasefire demanded by the United States, Ukraine, and key European allies. This indicates that Moscow’s priorities lie elsewhere.
**The US Position**
In a statement, the White House emphasized that Secretary Rubio’s engagements will advance solutions to global and regional challenges, expand bilateral trade, and reaffirm strategic partnerships. The trip aims to strengthen ties between the US and its NATO allies in Turkey. At the NATO meeting, Rubio is expected to promote President Trump’s agenda of ensuring all members contribute their fair share and push for a unified stance on ending the war in Ukraine.
**Russia’s Conditions**
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that Russia wants negotiations based on the terms of previous discussions and the current situation on the battlefield. This includes demands such as the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from occupied regions, recognition of Crimea, a ban on NATO membership, and reinstating the role of the Russian language and church.
**A Clear Contrast in Goals**
US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg reacted sharply to Russia’s proposal, saying that an unconditional 30-day ceasefire should come first. This stance reflects a clear contrast between US goals for peace talks and those proposed by Russia.
As Secretary Rubio travels to Turkey next week, the international community is holding its breath. Can this trip lead to meaningful progress in resolving the war? Only time will tell.
