Rubio warns new sanctions against Russia are inevitable without progress in talks

In an interview with CBS News, Rubio was asked whether Russia is intentionally dragging out the negotiations. He responded that the U.S. is trying to determine whether the Russian side is genuinely committed to ending the fighting.

Rubio noted that during the recent talks in Turkey, the Ukrainian and Russian delegations agreed to exchange proposals for a ceasefire. The U.S. expects these proposals to reflect realistic and reasonable positions. However, if Russia continues to demand unacceptable terms, it will significantly affect Washington’s stance.

“We don't want to be involved in this process of just endless talks, there has to be some progress, some movement forward” Rubio said.

He emphasized that Washington’s patience is running thin, and Congress is preparing to pass a new sanctions package targeting Russia. If Russia continues to stall negotiations without showing a real willingness to compromise, the Senate is ready to act independently of the White House.

Rubio added that there is already strong support in the Senate for a sanctions bill introduced by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, which could gain backing from as many as 80 senators — enough to override a potential presidential veto.

• U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio doesn’t see any chances for a breakthrough in the negotiations between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Istanbul.