In a stark condemnation of the ongoing conflict, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled Russia's war in Ukraine as "terrible," emphasizing the severe human toll as winter deepens. Speaking ahead of the Munich Security Conference, Rubio underscored Washington's commitment to ending the fighting, even as the US pressures Ukraine to consider territorial concessions.
Urgent Calls for Peace Amidst Winter Suffering
Rubio expressed his expectation to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference this weekend, highlighting the critical need to halt Russia's aggression. In remarks to reporters before departing for Munich late Thursday, he noted that the meeting is likely but not yet finalized, with Zelensky's attendance contingent on security conditions in Ukraine.
The Secretary of State described the relentless bombardment by Russian forces as "unimaginable," pointing to the dire circumstances faced by civilians. "People are suffering. It's the coldest time of year. It's terrible," Rubio stated, adding that the United States has been actively working for over a year to help bring the conflict to a close.
Munich Conference as a Defining Moment
Rubio is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech at the conference on Saturday, where he anticipates his message will be well-received. He characterized the gathering as a "defining moment" in global politics, asserting that "the old world is gone" and urging nations to reassess their roles in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
He also reinforced the significance of transatlantic alliances, affirming that Europe remains central to US foreign policy. "We're deeply tied to Europe, and our futures have always been linked and will continue to be," Rubio said. "We just have to talk about what that future looks like."
Broader Geopolitical Context and Agenda
The Munich Security Conference, running through Sunday, will address key issues including the durability of transatlantic unity, the US security umbrella, and the war in Ukraine, alongside relations with Moscow. According to AFP reports, Rubio's aim is to maintain pressure on European allies, though with a less confrontational tone compared to previous years.
Beyond Ukraine, the agenda covers topics such as the political crisis over former US President Donald Trump's demands to acquire Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory. After the conference, Rubio plans to visit Slovakia and Hungary, both led by nationalist governments that have garnered favor with Trump.
This development comes amid strained relations in regions like Georgia, once seen as pro-Western but now facing mass protests against its ruling pro-Russian party, highlighting the complex geopolitical shifts at play.
