US and Russia prepare for talks: Rubio reveals details

Rubio reveals whether he will pressure Russia's foreign minister during talks US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that he will hold talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on July 23. According to Rubio, one of the key topics of the meeting will be efforts to find a path toward ending Russia's war against Ukraine, according to RFE/RL correspondent Alex Raufoglu on Twitter (X).

What they will discuss

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that he will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on July 23.

According to the top US diplomat, the two sides intend to discuss, among other issues, efforts to find a path toward peace in Russia's war against Ukraine.

Journalist Alex Raufoglu asked Rubio whether he planned to put pressure on the Russian foreign minister over Ukraine.

"It’s inappropriate to talk about pressure. I will discuss this with him… The United States remains open and seeks to play a constructive role in the effort to end the war," Rubio said.

What Lavrov said earlier

Earlier the same day, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed that his meeting with Marco Rubio would take place on July 23.

According to Russia's top diplomat, he intends to ask his US counterpart about the possibility of a swift settlement to the war Russia is waging against Ukraine.

Previous contacts

In late May, Sergey Lavrov held a phone call with Marco Rubio. According to the Russian side, the minister "officially informed the American side" that Russian forces were "beginning systematic and consistent strikes on facilities used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces and on decision-making centers."

Commenting on those remarks, Rubio stressed that Russia's strikes on Ukrainian territory only underscore the need to end the war as soon as possible. According to him, "the war must end."

Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also announced the launch of a campaign targeting the International Criminal Court. According to Rubio, Washington has warned its allies that support could be reduced if they cooperate with the ICC.