The US is pursuing a comprehensive two-phase plan aimed at resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The ambitious strategy, which includes a ceasefire followed by critical peace talks, represents a significant step in the effort to end a war that has devastated Ukraine for over three years.
US Strategy to End the Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Phase One Ceasefire
In an exclusive interview with CBS on March 16, 2025, Rubio explained that the US is working toward a two-phase plan to end the conflict. “This is a complex war that has lasted more than three years and is taking place on a long military front with a lot of complexity,” Rubio said. The plan, referred to as “Plan A” and “Plan B,” aims to first implement a ceasefire to reduce tensions before moving to the next phase of peace negotiations.
“Phase One is to achieve a ceasefire so that we can then move on to Phase Two—negotiating a lasting peace through diplomatic efforts,” Rubio added. However, he stressed that securing a ceasefire would be a difficult task given the intricate dynamics on the battlefield and the competing interests of both Russia and Ukraine.
The Role of Shuttle Diplomacy in Peace Talks
While Plan A focuses on halting the immediate violence, Rubio acknowledged that Plan B would be even more challenging. Phase Two involves bringing both Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table, with the potential for shuttle diplomacy to facilitate dialogue and find a sustainable solution that respects the interests of all parties involved.
The US government has been cautiously optimistic about the prospects for peace. “It’s going to take a lot of work, a lot of compromise on both sides, but it has to happen. This war cannot continue,” Rubio said. He reiterated that President Donald Trump remains committed to ending the conflict, working tirelessly to bring about a resolution.
Trump Administration’s Commitment to Ending the Ukraine Conflict
President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, also expressed confidence that progress would be made in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the coming weeks. While the road ahead is uncertain, the US remains determined to find a way forward that balances the concerns of both sides.
On March 11, Ukraine agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposal from the US, a move that was also met with a cautious agreement from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Moscow’s conditions for the ceasefire include assurances that Ukraine will not mobilize or receive military aid during the ceasefire period.
Key Challenges in Reaching a Peace Agreement
Finding a mutually acceptable peace deal is fraught with challenges. Moscow has made it clear that any agreement must consider territorial realities, particularly in Crimea, and ensure that Ukraine remains neutral, avoiding any military alliances like NATO. Meanwhile, Ukraine has expressed the need for guarantees of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In the face of these complexities, Rubio emphasized that the focus remains on achieving the ceasefire. “Nobody said Phase Two would be easy, but we can’t even get to that phase if we don’t get through Phase One,” Rubio said, underscoring the importance of the immediate steps that need to be taken for the peace process to advance.
The Importance of Diplomacy in Ending the War
As negotiations unfold, the US is committed to facilitating dialogue and helping both Russia and Ukraine find common ground. The Trump administration has been clear: the war must come to an end, and the US will continue to work toward that goal through diplomatic channels and strategic efforts.
Will the US Two-Phase Plan Lead to Peace in Ukraine?
Do you think the US’s two-phase plan will bring lasting peace to Ukraine? Share your thoughts below in the comments section.
