**US Repeats Ukraine-Russia Talks Mantra Despite Russia’s Rejection of Ceasefires**
On June 7, 2025, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had a phone call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. During the conversation, Rubio emphasized the importance of direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to achieve a lasting peace. This message is not new, as the US has been pushing for talks between Moscow and Kyiv since January.
Rubio’s comments come as Russia continues to demand Ukraine’s capitulation, repeating its initial objectives from 2022. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, Russia shows no signs of backing down. In fact, Ukraine’s First Deputy Foreign Minister Serhii Kyslytsya stated that Russia again rejected an unconditional ceasefire.
**A Repeat Performance**
The June 7 call between Rubio and Barrot was not the first time the US has emphasized the need for direct talks between Ukraine and Russia. Since January, Trump has been advocating for negotiations to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but his efforts have proven ineffective. Russia continues to target civilians and infrastructure, making it difficult to achieve a lasting peace.
**More Diplomatic Pressure, But No Change in Russia’s Stance**
The phone call between Rubio and Barrot also touched on other global security issues, including preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and supporting Israel. However, the focus on Ukraine again highlights Washington’s ongoing strategy of promoting negotiations with Russia.
Despite the lack of results, diplomatic pressure remains unchanged. A meeting in Istanbul between Ukrainian and Russian low-level representatives took place on June 2, where both sides agreed to a new exchange of prisoners and fallen soldiers. However, Ukraine denies Russian claims that it blocked an unconditional ceasefire agreement.
**A Complex Situation**
The situation on the ground in Ukraine is complex, with both sides dug in and refusing to budge. Russia’s rejection of an unconditional ceasefire means that direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv are unlikely to yield immediate results. The US and other international players may continue to push for negotiations, but it remains to be seen if this will ultimately lead to a lasting peace.
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