Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discuss potential solutions to the Ukraine conflict, opening a new phase of multilateral negotiations that could shape the path to peace in Europe.

Related:

Russia and the US to begin talks on Ukraine in Saudi Arabia

Lavrov and Rubio Push Negotiations for a Political Resolution in Ukraine

The Ukraine conflict has enters a decisive phase following a phone conversation between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who explored resolution pathways and emphasized the need of addressing the root causes of the ongoing conflict.

The recent communication between Lavrov and Rubio occurs as the Ukraine war is described by the U.S. Secretary of State himself as an “indirect war between the United States and Russia.” This acknowledgment reveals the geopolitical magnitude of the conflict and the urgency of a negotiated solution to avoid further escalation.

Parallel to this dialogue, delegations from the U.S., Russia, France, and other European nations have held meetings in Paris and Saudi Arabia, which, according to international sources, did not include direct participation from Ukrainian representatives. This exclusion has raised concerns among progressive sectors, warning of the need to respect peoples’ self-determination and avoid agreements imposed by major powers.

Talks to end the war in Ukraine began in Riyadh with a meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio pic.twitter.com/5Ky7h0x47k

— The National (@TheNationalNews) February 18, 2025

The Russian Foreign Minister has insisted that Moscow is willing to collaborate with Washington to find a solution that does not compromise civilian lives and addresses structural causes of the conflict, such as NATO expansion and regional security. Lavrov underscores the importance of a sustainable and fair agreement, aligned with the historical demands of anti-imperialism and peace movements.

For his part, Marco Rubio has conveyed the Trump administration’s position, advocating for an end to the conflict and avoiding direct confrontation with Russia. However, critical voices within the international left argue that U.S. foreign policy remains driven by geopolitical interests that prioritize global hegemony over genuine peace.

As talks continue, the international community, particularly from Latin America and European social movements, demands transparency in negotiations and the inclusion of all affected parties. The future of Ukraine and Europe’s stability must be a peace process that respects sovereignty and peoples’ rights, not backroom deals among major powers.

The dialogue between Lavrov and Rubio opens a window of opportunity for peace in Ukraine, but pressures from social movements and progressive governments will be crucial to ensuring negotiations are fair, transparent, and respect peoples’ sovereignty.

EN ESTA NOTA: