US may withdraw from 'mediating' between Russia and Ukraine — Rubio

His remarks were conveyed by State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.

"The time has come for both sides — Ukraine and Russia — to present concrete proposals for ending the 'conflict'," he said.

"The decision on how to proceed now lies with the President (Trump — ed.). If there is no progress, we will withdraw from our role as mediators in this process."

The State Department spokesperson clarified that she could not provide a specific timeframe, but highlighted that Rubio’s statement was “very clear.”

Bruce also underscored that the statement refers to a “complete and lasting ceasefire,” not a temporary truce.

“Not a three-day ceasefire to allow for some celebration," she explained, referring to the “three-day ceasefire” proposed by Putin.

"A full, lasting ceasefire and an end to the conflict.”

Earlier, Rubio claimed that the coming week will be “critically important” for the US decision on whether to continue efforts to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.

According to The Financial Times, European and Ukrainian officials have expressed concern that Donald Trump may announce a withdrawal from the “peace negotiations” with Kyiv and Moscow if progress is deemed insufficient.