- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Manila to discuss the war in Ukraine during an ASEAN meeting.
- Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's readiness for a political and diplomatic settlement of the conflict, according to a statement from Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Rubio stated that the US remains prepared to play a constructive role in ending the war, emphasizing the need for a settlement that both sides can accept.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met in Manila to discuss the ongoing Ukraine war during an ASEAN meeting. Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's readiness for a political settlement, stating that Moscow remains committed to proposals from past meetings with Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.123
Lavrov emphasized the unacceptability of continued arms supplies to Ukraine, condemning European nations for pursuing a strategy aimed at Russia's defeat. He noted that the meeting with Rubio was beneficial for dialogue, expressing interest in discussing recent statements from Trump regarding a potential settlement.
Rubio, after the meeting, reiterated the US's willingness to play a constructive role in ending the conflict, highlighting that both Russia and Ukraine have incentives to conclude the war. He acknowledged the challenges in finding a mutually acceptable settlement, stating, “the war in Ukraine has in many ways impeded the ability of Russia and the United States to find areas of agreement on other topics.” He expressed hope for cooperation while emphasizing the urgency of ending the conflict.45
The discussions reflect ongoing diplomatic efforts amid a complex geopolitical landscape, with both sides recognizing the need for resolution.
“Rubio said the US remains prepared to play a 'constructive role' in ending the war, while Lavrov stressed that continued arms supplies to Ukraine are unacceptable. Separately, DP World reached a deal to build two deepwater terminals outside the Strait of Hormuz, providing an alternative route for the world's largest container port outside Asia.”
