US Secretary of State issues first official greeting on Russia day

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has congratulated Russians on Russia Day and stated that the US is seeking "constructive engagement with the Russian Federation to bring about a durable peace between Russia and Ukraine".

"On behalf of the American people, I want to congratulate the Russian people on Russia Day.

The United States remains committed to supporting the Russian people as they continue to build on their aspirations for a brighter future. We also take this opportunity to reaffirm the United States' desire for constructive engagement with the Russian Federation to bring about a durable peace between Russia and Ukraine. It is our hope that peace will foster more mutually beneficial relations between our countries," Rubio stated on the website of the US Department of State.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that Russian losses in the war had exceeded one million soldiers killed and wounded since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

US President Donald Trump said he was willing to withdraw from participating in negotiations between Ukraine and Russia if he saw no progress.

Trump also stated that he would not impose new sanctions against Russia, because in his view, "there is a chance" for progress in resolving the war launched by Putin against Ukraine.