Vice President Vance: Russia-Ukraine War Unlikely to End Soon Despite Diplomatic Push

U.S. Vice President JD Vance has expressed skepticism that Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine will end in the near future, warning that the conflict is “not going anywhere” anytime soon.

In an interview on Fox News on Thursday, Vance stated that the administration of President Donald Trump is working to “find some middle ground” to resolve the war, which has now dragged on for more than three years.

“It’s not going to end any time soon,” Vance said, though he noted efforts are underway to move toward a diplomatic solution.

His comments come just after a major economic breakthrough: the signing of a long-anticipated U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal. Vance cited the agreement as evidence of progress by the White House.

While expressing some hope, Vance acknowledged the limitations of the U.S. role in the peace process. “I’m optimistic,” he said, “but it’s hard to say confident, because ultimately Russia and Ukraine have to take the final step.”

On Wednesday, the U.S. and Ukraine finalized an economic partnership granting Washington preferential access to Kyiv’s valuable natural resources, including rare earth elements, critical minerals, oil, and gas. The deal aims to support Ukraine’s post-war recovery and strengthen bilateral ties.

U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent called the agreement “historic,” saying it would spur joint investments to speed up Ukraine’s economic revival and “help facilitate the end of this cruel and senseless war.”

Ukrainian officials also praised the partnership, describing it as a win for both nations.

Since taking office in January, President Trump has prioritized securing a minerals agreement with Ukraine, arguing that monetizing Kyiv’s resource wealth could serve as a form of repayment for the extensive U.S. aid provided during the war.

During his 2024 campaign, Trump repeatedly promised to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict within “one day” of taking office.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a warning earlier this week, stating that unless both Russia and Ukraine present “concrete proposals” to advance peace, Washington may reduce its involvement in mediation.

The Kremlin responded on Wednesday by reaffirming that President Vladimir Putin remains open to peace negotiations.