Discussions being led by Waltz, centering on the advancements in negotiations between the United States and Russia, pertaining to the Ukraine situation.
The back-and-forth between the U.S. and Russia over the Ukraine conflict is taking baby steps forward, as per Mike Waltz, President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor. BBC reported the news.
"It's progressing, though it ain't always an easy ride," Waltz shared.
He touted the United States-Ukraine agreement on mineral extraction as a substantial stride, but insisted that Russia should hop on board the negotiation train. In the words of rbc.group, "[Both sides] must be hell-bent on ending the tussle, and we think a deal's still on the table," Waltz concluded.
Recent statements from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hint at Russia and Ukraine needing to put forth concrete settlement ideas shortly. "If there's no progress, we're outta here as mediators," Rubio warned.
In the realm of economics, the partnership reached between the U.S. and Ukraine on April 29, concerning critical minerals, sets up an investment fund for the development and extraction of these resources. Many view this agreement as a post-conflict guarantee for U.S. investment and a means to recoup approximately $120 billion in American aid[2].
The standoff between Washington and Moscow has been marred by differing perspectives. The U.S. advocates for a structured 30-day ceasefire, encompassing all fronts, in contrast to Russia's seemingly token холоicasation at the end of May[1]. Russia's officials have notoriously resisted these proposals, using diplomatic language to dismiss the U.S./Ukrainian initiatives while protracting negotiations in the hopes of extracting sizable concessions[1]. President Trump, despite earlier optimism, has expressed growing frustration with Putin over recent Russian bombings, signaling a potential shift in his approach[2]. However, he still stands firm on the notion of finalized economic agreements as a tool for exerting influence[2].
In essence, the negotiation process between the U.S. and Russia remains deadlocked, with the U.S. pushing for structured ceasefires and economic safeguards, while Russia pursues maximalist demands hiding behind the veil of diplomacy[1][2].
Rubio knows that Russia and Ukraine need to add concrete settlement ideas in negotiations soon, as stated by him recently. Senator Rubio warned that without progress, the U.S. may exit its mediator role. Waltz, the U.S. National Security Advisor, has touted the United States-Ukraine agreement on mineral extraction as substantial progress in the negotiations. The rbc.group observes that both sides must be determined to end the conflict and believes a deal is still possible.
