Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Larry Kudlow of Fox Business Network about recent diplomatic efforts involving Russia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Rubio confirmed that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, describing the meeting as productive in discussing ways to end the war.
Rubio stated, "Steve went over to Moscow yesterday – Steve Witkoff, Ambassador Witkoff – and had a productive meeting in terms of what was discussed. The details, perhaps, hadn’t been shared before in terms of some ideas of how to bring this war to an end. Let’s remind everybody that’s the goal here. The President wants to end the war. So it was productive in that sense. We now have to continue to make progress."
Following the meeting, President Trump updated European leaders on its outcomes and plans further discussions with both European allies and Ukraine. Rubio indicated that if progress continues, there could soon be an opportunity for President Trump to meet with both Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
"But I’ve always believed – I’ve always said this – that I don’t think – I think for the deal – if there’s going to be a deal to end this war, it will have to require the President to come in at the end and close on it, as I’ve seen him do numerous times now on trade deals as an example," Rubio said.
Rubio noted that a ceasefire is likely necessary as part of any process toward peace: "At some point a ceasefire has to be a part of this process because it is hard to negotiate details of a final peace agreement while you’re shooting at each other." He added that territorial issues remain central, referencing areas controlled by Russia since 2014 including Crimea.
The Secretary emphasized the challenges involved: "This is tough. When you have a war and people have died – for example, on the Ukrainian side they’ve paid an enormous price in this war... Those concessions aren’t easy. You have to also sell them to the public back in your country."
Asked whether Ambassador Witkoff was returning with a ceasefire proposal, Rubio answered affirmatively but did not specify timing: "Yes." He explained that talks must continue between all parties involved—particularly between Russia and Ukraine—to narrow their positions before any potential summit can occur.
Regarding possible new sanctions on Russia set for Friday, Rubio stated: "That’s a decision the President will need to make here over the next 24 to 36 hours... ultimately, it’ll be the President’s call."
On whether Trump would speak directly with Putin soon, Rubio said no call was scheduled but left open the possibility depending on further progress.
Rubio also addressed reports from Israel about potential military actions in Gaza. He reiterated U.S. support for Israel's right to security decisions but outlined three key concerns: humanitarian needs, hostages held by Hamas, and ongoing threats from Hamas itself.
"There are three problems going on there, and they’re all interrelated," he said. "The first is there is a humanitarian problem... The second is that there are 20 innocent human beings that are being held hostage... And the third is that as long as Hamas exists, there will not be peace."
He stressed continued focus on humanitarian aid without benefiting Hamas while also emphasizing efforts needed for hostage release and disbanding Hamas.
Rubio concluded by noting ongoing U.S. engagement with Israeli officials and reaffirmed American priorities regarding hostages and regional stability.
