He believes that in potential negotiations to end the war, both Kyiv and Moscow need to be prepared for mutual concessions. This will be "not easy, and it will take some time," emphasized the head of the American diplomatic service.
"In any negotiations, both sides must give something up, renounce certain demands, and make concessions, and this will take time, but at least we have a goal – the conflict must be ended in a way that ensures long-term peace," Rubio stated in an interview.
He understands that it will be very difficult for Ukraine to concede the territories occupied by Russia after so many sacrifices.
"But there are harsh realities of life... Both sides have an incentive to end this conflict, and neither side will be able to achieve their maximalist goals," noted the U.S. Secretary of State.
On January 21, the day the U.S. Senate confirmed him as Secretary of State, Rubio expressed that the cessation of the war in Ukraine is only possible with both sides willing to compromise.