U.S. threatens to withdraw from Ukraine peace talks amid stalled progress
Department of Research, Studies and International News 18-04-2025
The United States has warned it may abandon diplomatic efforts to broker a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine within days if meaningful progress is not made, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced during a press conference in Paris. Rubio stated that while President Donald Trump remains open to a negotiated resolution, the administration is prepared to shift focus if talks remain stagnant.
This development marks the most decisive indication yet that Washington is losing patience with the lack of movement in the negotiations. Although Ukraine recently agreed to a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire without conditions, the Kremlin dismissed the initiative and instead escalated military operations. Russian forces have intensified attacks along the frontlines and increased aerial bombardments on civilian areas, including a deadly strike on Sumy that left 35 dead and over 100 injured.
Since Trump reassumed office in January, Ukraine has faced mounting pressure. U.S. military assistance has been curtailed, and intelligence sharing has been temporarily reduced. Meanwhile, Trump has refrained from criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin or enforcing punitive measures against Moscow, raising concerns among U.S. allies. Special envoy Steve Witkoff’s recent dialogue with Putin in St. Petersburg further reflects a softer stance.
At the same time, Ukraine confirmed the signing of a memorandum with the U.S. concerning a new mineral and economic cooperation deal. Though full details remain under wraps, it is believed to lay the groundwork for a fund dedicated to Ukraine’s reconstruction. First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko revealed that the agreement represents a step toward formalizing long-term investment plans.
However, a major point of contention is the U.S. demand for Ukraine to reimburse the cost of past military aid. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has resisted this stipulation, emphasizing that previous assistance was granted, not loaned, under bipartisan Congressional approval. He insists that any future collaboration must be balanced and mutually beneficial.
The proposed agreement is also seen as an attempt to secure rare-earth minerals critical to American defense manufacturing, particularly amid growing tensions with China, which has tightened export controls.
As discussions continue, Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal is expected in Washington next week for final technical talks. The deal must also be approved by the Ukrainian parliament. With Russia continuing attacks, including a recent missile assault on Kharkiv, the urgency surrounding both peace and economic negotiations continues to grow.
