Washington DC [US]: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Tuesday that the Biden administration could impose new sanctions on Russia if Moscow fails to present a formal ceasefire proposal in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Anadolu Agency reported.
Addressing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio emphasized that the world is awaiting a clear signal from President Vladimir Putin’s government about its willingness to engage in meaningful peace talks.
“It’s our understanding that the Russians are going to write up terms for what they would require in order to reach a ceasefire,” Rubio told the committee. “We await those terms, and then I’ll have a much better understanding about Mr. Putin’s calculation.”
When questioned about the possibility of further sanctions, Rubio confirmed the option is “on the table” should Russia appear to stall negotiations or continue its military offensive.
“If it is clear that the Russians are not interested in a peace deal and they just want to keep fighting a war, it may very well come to that point,” he added.
However, Rubio also clarified that President Donald Trump prefers to avoid immediate sanctions threats, believing they could disrupt the nascent diplomatic process.
“The President believes that right now, if you start threatening sanctions, the Russians will stop talking,” Rubio said. “He is very committed to ending the conflict and wants to maintain the ability to influence both parties toward a peaceful resolution.”
Background: Trump-Putin Call and Vatican’s Role
On Monday, President Trump revealed that Russia and Ukraine would “immediately” begin ceasefire talks, following a two-hour phone conversation with President Putin.
Trump also disclosed that the Vatican, under newly elected Pope Leo XIV, has offered to host the peace negotiations. This aligns with the Pope’s May 16 proposal to act as a neutral mediator after recent Istanbul talks collapsed, despite both countries agreeing to a prisoner exchange.
The Trump administration sees the Vatican’s involvement as a unique opportunity for diplomacy, leveraging the Pope’s moral authority and global neutrality.
What’s Next:
- The US awaits formal ceasefire terms from Moscow.
- Potential new sanctions hinge on Russia’s response.
- Negotiations may be held at the Vatican, with Pope Leo XIV mediating.
- Trump’s strategy focuses on keeping diplomatic channels open, avoiding premature pressure tactics.
As the war drags on, the US and global community are watching closely to see whether Putin’s next move will signal a real desire for peace — or reinforce calls for stronger punitive measures.