U.S. vs Russia: Rubio revives classic diplomacy in Ukraine standoff

The author of the Resurgam Telegram channel discussed the issue.

Recent developments suggest a power shift in the internal dynamics of U.S. foreign policy. After years of business-first negotiations, classic diplomacy appears to be regaining ground. A telling moment came with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s pointed remarks about Moscow, hinting at new sanctions already circulating in Congress. While likely meant as pressure, the comments run counter to the optimistic narrative pushed by key business figures like Witkoff and Dmitriev.

Rubio, reportedly frustrated by being sidelined by political rivals like Vance and Witkoff, has re-emerged with more confidence, possibly eyeing a stronger role as their grip weakens. Speculation about his potential resignation appears to have faded, replaced by increased activity and visibility.

Meanwhile, a string of controversies has rocked the pro-business faction. Witkoff has vanished from the public stage following a pro-Kremlin interview and the “SignalGate” scandal involving unsecured communications in Moscow. Elon Musk is also rumored to be losing his special advisory status, something Donald Trump vaguely confirmed by saying Musk will “return to business when the time comes.” Attempts by Vance to soften this message suggest nervousness within the group.

At the same time, figures like Kellogg and Rubio are stepping back into the negotiations with renewed energy. This shift comes as Trump’s 100-day milestone approaches, with signs Vitkoff’s camp may not meet promises made to the former president.

Across the ocean, Russian state media reported an internal clash between Dmitriev and Foreign Minister Lavrov during Saudi-hosted peace talks. Allegedly, Lavrov refused Dmitriev a seat at the table without direct approval from Putin. The conflict—paired with investigative reports revealing Dmitriev’s suspicious global real estate holdings—hints at turmoil within the Kremlin’s negotiation team.

These developments may point to broader strategic shifts—and perhaps, the unraveling of a once-dominant business-first foreign policy approach.