Antalya: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Thursday that US President Donald Trump is determined to see an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and is hopeful for progress in negotiations with both nations in the coming days. Rubio emphasized the importance of the current gathering of NATO foreign ministers in Antalya, Trkiye, underscoring NATO's continued efforts to ensure no vulnerabilities exist within the alliance, with the Russia-Ukraine conflict being a primary concern.
According to Anadolu Agency, Rubio stated that President Trump is clear in his desire to see the war conclude, expressing readiness to support any mechanism that could lead to a lasting peace. Rubio highlighted NATO's mission to prevent wars and referenced the Ukraine peace talks occurring in Istanbul, Trkiye, noting that Trump's goal is to end wars, particularly between Russia and Ukraine, and hopes for progress in the near future.
Rubio reiterated that a military solution is not viable for the Russia-Ukraine conflict, advocating instead for a diplomatic resolution. He conveyed that Trump envisions countries focusing on economic growth and prosperity, opposing factors that hinder such development, including wars, terrorism, and instability.
In an effort to foster stability, Rubio mentioned Trump's decision to lift US sanctions on Syria's new administration post-Assad, aiming to transition Syria from instability to stability. Rubio expressed optimism for a negotiated resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war and preventive steps for future conflicts, hoping for imminent progress.
At the NATO meeting, Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the need for American leadership amidst global challenges. He noted concerns about the 'ongoing Russian threat,' Chinese military expansion, and terrorism, urging NATO allies to enhance their defense industries to counter any threats.
Rutte stressed the necessity of achieving a 'lasting and durable' peace in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of defense industrial capacity to safeguard NATO against potential threats.