US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov following an agreement between the US and Russian presidents on a potential summit in Budapest. The foreign ministers are tasked with preparing for this meeting, which may occur as soon as October 23.
Details of the discussions have not been disclosed. The US State Department emphasized the importance of diplomatic contacts for finding compromises, while Lavrov highlighted the implementation of previously reached agreements. The specifics of these agreements remain undisclosed.
After speaking with Putin, the US president has repeatedly insisted on a ceasefire along the Russian-Ukrainian front line. The Kremlin continues to insist that a comprehensive agreement between Russia and Ukraine should come first, followed by a ceasefire, a plan not supported by Washington.
Expert analysis indicates that the US and Russia remain on opposing sides regarding any potential compromise. Progress is deemed difficult due to the complex interests involved. If negotiations stall, the possibility of a presidential meeting is uncertain. This could lead to additional sanctions on Russia and increased US support for Ukraine, including weapon supplies.
In this context, Rubio and Lavrov are conducting negotiations under challenging circumstances, demonstrating diplomatic activity despite significant disagreements between the US and Russia over the war and prospects for peace in Ukraine.
