US President Donald Trump will be deciding soon if he should keep urging an end to the Ukraine-Russia war or move on to other top agendas. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the imminent decision, noting Trump’s increasing frustration with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
While Trump has heaped pressure on Ukraine, Russia’s persistent refusal to accept ceasefire proposals is the largest hurdle. In the days ahead, Trump’s decision may redefine US foreign policy.
Trump Increasing Irritation with Zelenskyy and Putin
In the last week, Trump attacked Zelenskyy for refusing a US proposal for a ceasefire that would have acknowledged Russian dominance over five Ukrainian provinces.
He also showed quiet discontent with Putin, questioning whether the Russian president is stalling negotiations just to prevent an actual settlement.
Following his encounter with Zelenskyy at Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome, Trump tweeted that Putin may not even want to end the war. He threatened more aggressive action, proposing new “banking” sanctions and “secondary sanctions” to pressure Russia into action.
Rubio Signals a Possible Shift in Focus
Rubio emphasized that Trump will make a last-minute decision in days. He mentioned that despite some progress being achieved, the toughest steps still lie ahead. “We’re close, but we’re not close enough,” Rubio added.
He warned that the administration won’t continue pouring in time and money if a breakthrough remains elusive.
Earlier this month, Rubio already indicated the administration would then move on if peace talks don’t deliver immediate results.
Russia Keeps Thwarting Peace Efforts
While Trump has pressured Ukraine a lot, Russia has continually thwarted ceasefire initiatives. Last week, Ukraine signed onto a 30-day US-sponsored ceasefire agreement.
Russia followed up by introducing new conditions that rendered the agreement impossible.
Moscow also did not implement a ceasefire to defend Ukraine’s energy infrastructure despite Kyiv’s speedy acceptance of it. In another rebuff, Russia spurned a US-facilitated Black Sea security deal, calling for the removal of sanctions and unfettered access to the SWIFT payment system.
Every rebuff makes one point clear: Russia, not Ukraine, is the primary stumbling block to a peace deal.
Trump Urges Expedited Bargain
Even with the rebuffs, Trump is looking for a rapid settlement. On Sunday, he expressed hope that Ukraine and Russia might agree “in two weeks or less.
But with Russia stonewalling and negotiations at a standstill, prospects for peace look dim. Unless an agreement is reached soon, Trump and his people appear set to channel their energy elsewhere.
