Only Putin can end this war on the Russian side.

Axar.az informs, citing Kyiv Post, when asked about the likelihood of a peace agreement, Rubio offered measured hope, emphasizing that ultimate decisions lie with Putin.

“Ultimately the decisions have to be made, in the case of Russia, by Putin alone, not his advisors. Only Putin can end this war on the Russian side,” he said.

After 10 months of engagement, Rubio said progress has been made but cautioned that a resolution is not yet within reach. “We’ve gotten closer, but we’re still not there. That could change. I hope it changes,” he said.

For Rubio, the coming weeks could prove decisive, with the success of these talks resting not on US power, but on whether Moscow is willing to play along – and whether Ukraine’s hard-won gains can be preserved in the bargain.