U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a speech from Helsinki, Finland, “The United States welcomes any addition that helps bring President Putin to the table to engage in meaningful diplomacy. We’ll support efforts, whether by Brazil, China, or any other nation, if they help find a way to a just and lasting peace, consistent with the principles of the United Nations Charter.” Blinken then spoke of specific requirements for peace including a Russian withdrawal from Ukraine and Russia assisting in the reconstruction of Ukraine. He emphasized that the U.S. does not seek the removal of Russian President Vladimir Putin from power in Russia, despite President Biden’s call for Putin to be removed last year. A Chinese peace plan came to light this past spring, but thus far has gained little to no traction.
