Key takeaways
– Rubio said no deal was promised because Ukraine was not at the table
– He noted talks with both Russia and Ukraine as signs of progress
– Trump had claimed Putin would soon agree to peace
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced tough questions on Sunday morning. Host Maria Bartiromo asked why the Trump Putin meeting did not bring a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Rubio replied that the meeting never aimed to seal a deal without Ukraine’s presence. He said the United States keeps talking with both sides.
Despite this, many Americans expected more. Last week the president said Putin would make a peace pact. Now critics wonder if diplomacy can yield results.
Background on the Trump Putin Meeting
In mid June the president met Russia’s leader in Europe. The discussion aimed to calm tensions over the war in Ukraine. Both sides had reasons to sit down. Russia wanted to ease sanctions. The United States sought to show diplomatic muscle. However Ukraine did not join the talks. In a war between two nations, observers say key players should attend. Without Ukraine there is no direct negotiation. Tallinn in Estonia hosted the summit under NATO’s watch. Allies and partners around the globe watched closely.
Rubio’s Response to Ceasefire Questions
Maria Bartiromo pressed Rubio on a Sunday news show. She asked why the meeting ended without a ceasefire. Rubio said they never claimed to sign a deal then. He argued that progress still happened. He noted that the United States met with Russia and kept talking to Ukraine. Furthermore he said more talks will follow. He will meet Ukrainian officials in person soon. He plans to include European allies too. Rubio believes these steps show real progress in diplomacy. He also added that the United States acts in support rather than as a party in the war.
Trump’s Earlier Comments on Peace
Just days before Rubio’s interview the president spoke with another host. He noted his belief that Putin would be convinced to end the war. He said he expects a deal very soon. Many listeners took this as a bold claim. Yet experts have warned that ending such a conflict takes more than a few meetings. They stress the need for Ukraine’s agreement and clear terms. Some critics say the president’s words set unrealistic expectations. This mismatch between promise and outcome now leaves officials explaining why no ceasefire emerged.
Reaction from Critics and Supporters
Voices on both sides reacted quickly to Rubio’s interview. Some supporters praised the secretary for keeping talks alive. They said diplomacy requires patience. Others criticized the message. They argued that any meeting should yield at least a temporary truce. Analysts noted that peer negotiations often include direct participants. They said omitting Ukraine weakens any ceasefire claim. Meanwhile average citizens voiced frustration on social media. They asked why their leaders seem to talk more than act. This public pressure may shape the next rounds of discussions.
Next Steps in the Diplomatic Effort
According to Rubio the United States will continue its dual track approach. First they will keep pressure on Russia through sanctions. Second they will support Ukraine with defense aid. Third they plan further talks with both sides. These meetings may take place in Europe or the Middle East. Allies from NATO will join to boost credibility. Observers will watch for signs of real concessions from both Russia and Ukraine. In the end a ceasefire requires mutual trust and clear terms. Experts say that trust grows only when all parties have skin in the game. Without Ukraine at the table the process may stall again.
Conclusion
Marco Rubio’s attempt to explain the lack of a ceasefire highlights the limits of high level talks without all parties present. While progress may exist behind the scenes, public expectations remain high. The president’s previous promises now contrast sharply with the current reality. As the United States and its allies move forward they will need clear agendas and the full participation of Ukraine. Only then can they hope to turn diplomatic meetings into lasting peace.