Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Rubio and Lavrov Seek Urgent Peace Amid Rising Casualties

7/12/2025

34 6

Summary

Rubio Urges Peace

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov convened in Malaysia, seeking a fresh approach to peace talks for Ukraine as Russian assaults on Kyiv intensify. Rubio voiced frustration over stalled negotiations, urging Russia to show greater flexibility. Meanwhile, the U.N. revealed the highest casualty figures from Russian attacks in three years, underscoring the urgent need for resolution.

Summary

Zelenskyy Seeks Peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Pope Leo XIV in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, to address the pressing need for peace amid relentless Russian aggression. The Pope expressed the Vatican's readiness to facilitate peace talks, despite Russia's earlier rejection. Zelenskyy highlighted the significance of dialogue and expressed gratitude for the Vatican's efforts to reunite abducted Ukrainian children.

1 of 2

Rubio Urges Peace

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov convened in Malaysia, seeking a fresh approach to peace talks for Ukraine as Russian assaults on Kyiv intensify. Rubio voiced frustration over stalled negotiations, urging Russia to show greater flexibility. Meanwhile, the U.N. revealed the highest casualty figures from Russian attacks in three years, underscoring the urgent need for resolution.

1 / 2