US Calls for Direct Ukraine-Russia Engagement Amid Peace Push

The United States is shifting its approach to the Russia-Ukraine war by reducing its direct role as mediator and urging both countries to present concrete steps toward ending the conflict. State Department officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, have emphasized that it is now up to Russia and Ukraine to independently negotiate a peace agreement. This policy change follows stalled diplomatic efforts and reflects Washington’s broader global priorities. Meanwhile, U.S. intelligence suggests that Vladimir Putin may be willing to temporarily limit his war aims to improve relations with the U.S., but officials remain skeptical, suspecting Russia could resume hostilities after any tactical pause. Recent U.S.-Ukraine agreements, such as preferential access to Ukrainian minerals, may also influence future negotiations. Despite these developments, Moscow continues to intensify strikes and has not abandoned its broader military objectives.