April 17, 2025: 11:00 p.m.:
April 17, 2025: State Highlights
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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and envoy Steve Witkoff met with European and Ukrainian officials in Paris to promote a U.S.-led peace framework to end the war in Ukraine. The framework received a positive response from European powers and Ukraine, although Russia remains cautious. President Donald Trump seeks a swift resolution and has proposed a minerals and economic cooperation deal with Ukraine as part of the peace initiative. French President Emmanuel Macron hosted the talks, emphasizing Europe’s continued involvement in negotiations and opposition to exclusive U.S.-Russia talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized perceived Russian narratives promoted by Witkoff and accused China of supporting Russia militarily. While a full ceasefire remains elusive, there is tentative agreement on limiting attacks on energy targets and at sea. Negotiators plan to reconvene in London next week. Separately, U.S. and French defense leaders discussed NATO defense spending and Ukraine’s long-term security. U.S. officials also held side talks with Iran regarding its nuclear program, with further discussions scheduled in Rome.
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Secretary Rubio spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, presenting the same peace proposal discussed in Paris. The State Department reported an “encouraging reception” from European and Ukrainian counterparts, though Russia remains cautious.
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President Trump hosted Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White House, expressing support for a future EU-US trade deal. On Ukraine, Trump gave mixed messages, stating his desire to end the conflict while expressing dissatisfaction with all parties involved, including Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, whom he criticized. A potential US-Ukraine minerals deal is expected to be signed soon. Trump also praised Meloni for aligning with NATO defense spending targets and accepted her invitation to visit Rome.
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The U.S. and Iran have resumed indirect nuclear talks, with initial discussions held in Oman and further meetings planned in Rome. The Trump administration seeks to cap Iran’s uranium enrichment at 3.67%, while Iran continues its nuclear development. Russia has ratified a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Iran, adding complexity to the negotiations.
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The State Department held a press briefing led by Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, addressing ongoing diplomatic efforts in Ukraine and Iran, and reaffirming the U.S. commitment to European security partnerships.
