Part 6/9:
Responses from U.S. officials highlight an evolving strategy regarding the conflict and how the U.S. perceives its role in encouraging a resolution. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that pressure would increasingly be placed on Russia in light of its refusal to engage with the truce proposal. The implied strategy is now tailored towards fortifying Ukraine's position, both militarily and diplomatically, and ensuring that deterrence against future aggression remains at the forefront of any negotiation efforts.
There is a sense that the United States will need to recalibrate its approach to ensure that measures against Russia are not only punitive but meant to construct a pathway toward peace that safeguards Ukraine's sovereignty and prevents recurring conflicts.