US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has denounced Russia's warfare in Ukraine as "terrible," particularly highlighting the hardships faced by people during this severe winter season. The statement comes as Washington maintains pressure on Ukraine to make territorial concessions while asserting that it is actively seeking to halt the ongoing conflict.
Rubio expressed his anticipation to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the Munich Security Conference scheduled for this weekend, underscoring the critical need to resolve Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
Before his departure to Munich late Thursday, Rubio noted that while the meeting is probable, it has not yet been officially arranged. Zelensky, for his part, has indicated his intention to attend the conference, contingent upon the security situation in Ukraine permitting such travel.
Describing the ongoing Russian bombardment of Ukraine as deeply troubling, Rubio drew attention to the humanitarian impact of the war. "That’s why we want the war to end. People are suffering. It’s the coldest time of year. It’s unimaginable, the suffering," he remarked, indicating that the US has dedicated efforts over the past year to achieve peace in the region.
Rubio is scheduled to deliver remarks at the conference on Saturday, expressing confidence that his message will resonate well, referring to the meeting as a "defining moment" in the context of global politics.
He asserted that traditional global power dynamics have shifted, necessitating nations to reevaluate their positions within a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape. Emphasizing the significance of transatlantic relations, Rubio remarked that Europe remains a cornerstone of US foreign policy.
“We’re deeply tied to Europe, and our futures have always been linked and will continue to be,” Rubio stated. “We just have to talk about what that future looks like.”
The political climate in Georgia, historically viewed as a pro-Western entity within the former Soviet Union, has deteriorated, facing significant protests against the ruling pro-Russian party, Georgian Dream.
According to AFP, which reported on Rubio’s arrival for the Munich Security Conference, he aims to maintain pressure on European allies, albeit with a less confrontational tone compared to the previous year.
Rubio is set to head the US delegation for the annual security and defense discussions, which will continue through Sunday.
Despite the existing political turmoil surrounding Donald Trump's Greenland proposal, the US intends to encourage its European partners, who are still recovering from the fallout.
In addition to discussing Greenland, the conference will address issues concerning transatlantic unity, the US protective role, the situation in Ukraine, and US-Moscow relations.
Following the Munich discussions, Rubio plans to travel to Slovakia and Hungary, which are governed by nationalist administrations that have gained favor with President Trump.
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