U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the media following a direct meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Manila. He highlighted the necessity of fresh strategies to end the war in Ukraine. The discussions occurred during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' conference on July 23.
Rubio noted that diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Russia had started in February but were redirected toward rising tensions with Iran. He emphasized that the current deadlock in peace negotiations needs new diplomatic tactics, stating, 'Peace will come from a new idea.'
According to reports, Lavrov reiterated Moscow's call for a halt to U.S. military support for Ukraine and pushed for a diplomatic resolution based on a deal between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S.
The Alaska talks reportedly included Russian demands that Ukraine fully retreat from Donbas, a region where Ukrainian forces are currently stationed. Kyiv has made clear it will not give up any territory, rendering the suggestion unacceptable. Lavrov's repeated push for it during the Manila meeting shows little change from Russia's stance.
Rubio admitted that past peace suggestions failed to meet Kyiv's requirements and indicated current proposals might be even less agreeable. He suggested the U.S. is open to introducing new ideas if circumstances allow. However, the meeting produced no clear progress and left both sides with unfulfilled expectations.