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Rubio: Russia Wants What It Doesn’t Have, Ukraine What It Can’t Regain Militarily

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Rubio: Russia Wants What It Doesn’t Have, Ukraine What It Can’t Regain Militarily
Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares to testify during the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on the 2026 State Department budget on May 20, 2025. (Source: Getty Images)

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the war in Ukraine reflects a fundamental difference: Russia wants what isn’t theirs, while Ukraine is seeking to recover lost areas through means that may not be achievable militarily. Rubio made the statement during his testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

“Russia wants what they do not currently have and are not entitled to, and Ukraine wants what they cannot regain militarily. And that’s been the crux of the challenge,” said Rubio.

Testifying on May 20, Rubio also highlighted that the US and its allies are actively working on the transfer of Patriot missile systems to Ukraine, underscoring continued support for Ukraine’s defense efforts amid the ongoing war.

In related news, following his May 19 phone conversation with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump held follow-up calls with leaders from Ukraine, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Finland, and the European Commission.

European leaders were reportedly “stunned” by Trump’s account of the discussion, though specific concerns were not disclosed. The report suggests that Trump’s remarks could signal a shift in Washington’s approach to the war in Ukraine, potentially stepping back from its traditional role as a mediator.

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