During the G7 ministerial meeting on Friday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio argued over the war in Ukraine and the U.S. stance toward Russia. Kallas criticized Washington for failing to increase pressure on Moscow.
Axios reported this incident, citing sources present at the meeting. Kallas challenged Rubio over his previous promises. A year ago, Rubio stated that the U.S. would take additional measures against the Kremlin if Russia hindered peace efforts.
Kallas directly asked:
“A year has passed, and Russia hasn’t moved. When will your patience run out?”
The U.S. Secretary of State was visibly irritated by the remark. Rubio reportedly raised his voice and replied:
“We are doing everything we can to end the war. If you think you can do it better, please. We will step aside.”
He further clarified that the U.S. tries to negotiate with both sides but only assists Ukraine with weapons and intelligence.
What is known about the clash
Several European ministers intervened to express their support for continued U.S. diplomatic leadership. At the end of the meeting, Rubio and Kallas spoke privately to lower the tension. State Department officials described the encounter as a “candid exchange of views,” though Rubio later denied any negativity.
The disagreement occurred amidst the full-scale invasion and rising global energy prices. Washington is currently easing some sanctions to increase oil supply due to the conflict with Iran. However, European allies remain concerned that such moves might inadvertently support Vladimir Putin’s interests.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that the U.S. might send 10,000 additional troops to the Middle East due to rising regional tensions.
