Secretary of State Macro Rubio stated on Friday that the US will be able to determine within weeks if Russia is genuinely interested in a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Speaking at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Rubio said that Russia is aware of the US desire to end the war, and their responses will soon reveal whether they are serious about pursuing genuine peace or employing a stalling tactic.

Concerns are growing about Moscow’s commitment to engaging with the Trump administration after it rejected a Ukrainian proposal in early March and subsequently refused to agree to a Black Sea ceasefire later that month without the removal of sanctions.

Rubio added that President Trump is not interested in a delay tactic and will not be drawn into endless negotiations about negotiations.

When questioned by reporters, Rubio declined to comment on the conditions Russia has specified for securing a peace agreement.

However, he noted that official readouts following discussions with foreign leaders do not always accurately reflect the content of those discussions. He suggested this was the case after President’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, when the White House stated that Russia had “agreed” to eliminate the use of force in the Black Sea.

The Kremlin later clarified that any such agreement was dependent on the West lifting sanctions.

Rubio acknowledged this as part of the process, emphasizing that the ultimate outcome will be whether progress towards peace is achieved.

Rubio reiterated that both Ukraine and Russia would need to compromise to end the war but declined to specify what those concessions should be, stating that these details should emerge through negotiations.

He stated that initial talks with the Russians were important as there had been a long period without communication. However, he added that they have now reached a stage where progress is needed, acknowledging that it will be difficult but expressing optimism.

Rubio told reporters that there are both promising and troubling signs, and while it will not be easy, they will find out soon enough. He concluded by expressing hopefulness.

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