Official: Talks between US, Russia continue, but challenges remain

US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz addressed questions about the future of US-Russia talks, stating that the negotiation process on the Ukraine conflict is continuing, albeit with some challenges.

When asked whether the US is reconsidering its approach to talks with Russia, Waltz responded, "The process is moving forward. Sometimes it ebbs and flows," indicating that while progress is being made, it is not always linear, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

Waltz also discussed the recent signing of a minerals deal, calling it "a momentous step." 

However, he stressed the importance of Russia's involvement in the process, stating, "Russia needs to come to the table." He further emphasised that both sides need to show a willingness to end the conflict, saying, "Both sides have to want to stop the fighting, and we think there is, there is still a deal to be had."

Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that now is the time for concrete proposals from Moscow and Kyiv to end the war in Ukraine and warned that the US will step back as a mediator if there is no progress.

By Naila Huseynova