Kremlin warns against optimism on peace after Rubio, Lavrov meet in Manila

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met in Manila on Thursday during an ASEAN gathering to discuss the conflict in Ukraine. Rubio stated the US would continue to play a "constructive role" and was prepared to offer "new ideas and some new concepts" to achieve peace, acknowledging it is a "very bloody war" and both sides need an acceptable end. However, the Kremlin expressed skepticism about immediate progress, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating, "In this situation, I wouldn't be too optimistic." Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's readiness for a political settlement, while Moscow continues to demand the US cease arming Ukraine and adhere to the "Alaska Understandings," which Kyiv rejects as they involve relinquishing control of the Donbas region.