January 12, 2026
Thank you, President. And a special thank you to our two briefers today.
And also a special welcome to Ukraine at this meeting.
Just days ago, U.S. diplomats met with EU and Ukrainian counterparts to advance negotiations toward a lasting peace. Thanks to the leadership of President Trump, we are closer to a deal now than at any point since the war began.
Despite this, Russia launched more attacks on Ukraine, including its launch of its nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile, targeting an area of Ukraine close to the border with Poland and NATO. This constitutes another dangerous and inexplicable escalation of this war, even as the United States is urgently working with Kyiv, other partners, and Moscow, to end the war through a negotiated settlement.
At a moment of tremendous potential, due only to President Trump’s unparalleled commitment to peace around the world, both sides should be seeking ways to de-escalate, yet Russia’s action risks expanding and intensifying the war.
From the start, President Trump has decried the carnage of this conflict. Horribly, we have to continue to deplore the staggering number of casualties – service members and civilians, men, women, and children.
We condemn Russia’s continuing and intensifying attacks on Ukraine’s energy facilities and other civil infrastructure. These attacks make a mockery of the cause of peace, a cause of paramount importance to the world, and to President Trump.
I would like to remind the Russian Federation of its vote in favor of Security Council Resolution 2774, nearly one year ago. That resolution called for a swift end to the conflict and lasting peace. It would be nice if Russia matched their words with deeds. In the spirit of that resolution, Russia, Ukraine, and Europe must pursue peace seriously and bring this nightmare to an end.
Thank you.
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