The ongoing peace talks between Russia and Ukraine are facing a significant turn, with US State Secretary Marco Rubio Warning that Russia is running out of time to demonstrate its commitment to negotiation.
After a meeting with the NATO ministers at Brussels, Rubio expressed disappointment with the current situation on Friday, stating, “We will soon know, in a few weeks, not in months, not Russia is serious about peace or not”. The feeling resonates with concerns that Russian President Vladimir Putin can use talks as a stalling strategy to carry forward his military objectives on the battlefield.
He also said that the US was losing patience with “talks about talks” and indicated to slap more sanctions on Russia according to the New York Times.
Major demands and concerns
Russia’s demands for a ceasefire involve the recognition of its annexation of Crimea, the session of four areas claims that it is an attachment, and guarantees that Ukraine will not be included in NATO. On the other hand, Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelansky, total Russian withdrawal, withdrawal of prisoners and kidnapping children, and gives protection guarantee from Western countries. European leaders are worried that Trump may prioritize Putin’s demands in any peace talks, which can be motivated to push them to protect Ukraine.
NATO’s role and military expenses
Rubio also urged NATO members to increase military expenses by 5% of their GDP, which crossed the US military expenses. However, he later softened his stance, stating that NATO members should be “on the way to 5 percent at a point”. This push for increased military expenses is part of a comprehensive effort to strengthen the presence of NATO in the region.
Greenland dispute
The dispute around Greenland has added another layer of complexity to the situation. Trump has publicly suggested that Greenland should be a part of the US, Danish, Foreign Minister Lawkek expresses displeasure with Rasmusen. “Claims and statements about annexing Greenland are not only unacceptable and derogatory. They are funds for violation of international law,” Rasmusen said. Rubio replied that some Greenlanders wish for freedom from Denmark, saying, “We did not give them this idea. They have been talking about it for a long time”.
Efforts of ceasefire and peace
Meanwhile, European leaders are working to protect Ukraine, to follow any ceasefire to discuss possible deployment of soldiers to visit Kiev with French and British military leaders. Ukrainian President Volodimier Zelanski mentioned that aerial rescue and an appearance on land and sea could be part of this effort. However, Russia has made it clear that it will not accept any NATO soldiers in Ukraine.