US official urges EU to develop security proposals for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on Europe to take decisive action in developing concrete proposals to ensure Ukraine's security, emphasizing the need for less rhetoric and more tangible measures.

In a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on April 4, Rubio wrote, "Europe must come up with concrete proposals to ensure the security of the Ukrainian people," Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

His comments reflect growing pressure on European nations to enhance their role in Ukraine’s defence amidst its ongoing war with Russia.

Rubio’s remarks came as a critical meeting began in Kyiv between representatives from France, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine to discuss the potential deployment of a military contingent in Ukraine following the resolution of the conflict with Russia. The French delegation is led by General Thierry Burkhardt, while Admiral Anthony Radakin heads the British team.

The Financial Times reported on April 3 that the European Union (EU) is exploring the possibility of using NATO’s command structures for deploying a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine. The initiative, which involves a coalition of willing nations, suggests that NATO's command and control systems could be utilized to organize and oversee "security forces" within the country.

At a press conference after a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Rubio reiterated that the US remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine but acknowledged the challenges in the negotiation process. Despite this, he stressed that the international community must prioritize practical steps to secure Ukraine’s future.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump had stated that Europe must take on more responsibility for ensuring its own security, signaling a shift towards European self-reliance in defence matters.

Rubio’s call for Europe to take more proactive steps in securing Ukraine comes as the situation in the region remains precarious, with continued fighting and uncertainty over the terms of any potential peace agreement.

By Vafa Guliyeva