Fri Feb 21 17:30:32 UTC 2025: ## US Secretary of State Defends Russia-US Talks Amidst Ukraine War Tensions
**Washington, D.C. – February 21, 2025** – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the Trump administration’s decision to hold direct talks with Russia regarding the ongoing Ukraine war, pushing back against accusations of appeasement. The talks, held in Riyadh earlier this week, excluded Ukraine and its European allies.
Rubio stated that the U.S. wants to ascertain Russia’s seriousness in ending the conflict before further negotiations. He explained the need to “test” Russia’s commitment, adding that engaging in dialogue is necessary given Russia’s significant nuclear arsenal. While expressing disapproval of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions, Rubio emphasized the importance of communication with a nation possessing such substantial military capabilities.
The talks resulted in an agreement to establish high-level teams to explore pathways to ending the war and a consultation mechanism to address irritants in U.S.-Russia relations. President Trump expressed increased optimism for a peace deal following the Riyadh discussions.
The decision to exclude Ukraine and its allies from the initial talks has drawn criticism. Rubio countered these criticisms, asserting that a resolution to the war requires representation from both sides. He also acknowledged President Trump’s frustration with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, suggesting that some of this frustration is justified. While acknowledging the human cost of the war, Rubio emphasized that the conflict’s impact on American daily lives is indirect, stemming from its implications for U.S. allies and global stability. He further criticized Zelenskyy’s accusations against President Trump as counterproductive. The ongoing tension between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy has been marked by a series of public criticisms.
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