Marco Rubio Advocates 'Hard Diplomacy' for Ukraine Conflict Resolution

The nominee for U.S. Secretary of State calls for mutual concessions between Ukraine and Russia while urging greater NATO defense commitments.

Marco Rubio, nominated as U.S. Secretary of State under Donald Trump, emphasized the need for 'hard diplomacy' to end the Ukraine war during his Senate confirmation hearing.
Rubio stated that both Ukraine and Russia would need to make concessions to achieve a ceasefire and eventual peace settlement.
He criticized Germany's past energy dependence on Russia but praised recent European efforts to reduce reliance, including LNG terminal construction.
Rubio urged NATO allies to increase defense spending, aligning with Trump's demand for contributions of 5% of GDP from member states.
The nominee also highlighted concerns over China's rise, accusing it of exploiting the global order through dishonest practices to achieve superpower status.