Today marks the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In recent days, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has faced criticism from Trump, who labeled Zelensky a “dictator without elections.”

Zelensky dismisses these claims, citing Ukraine’s constitutional prohibition of elections during martial law.

On Sunday, however, Zelensky expressed willingness to resign from his position. “If to achieve peace you really need me to give up my post — I’m ready,” he said.

But this would come with a flagrant string attached: Namely, Ukraine’s membership in NATO.

• However, Ukraine’s potential NATO membership was one of the factors that initially provoked Russia’s invasion, making Zelensky’s proposition circuitous in the extreme.

• Plus, Ukraine joining NATO would contradict agreements dating back to the Reagan-Gorbachev era regarding the expansion of NATO into former Soviet territories.

As Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth put it, Ukraine joining NATO wouldn’t be a “realistic outcome of a negotiated settlement” with Russia.

That said, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appears to be exploring increasingly desperate measures to bring this war to an end.

Will surrender come today, as we’ve asserted? The day’s not over…

Your Rundown for Monday, February 24, 2025...

Trump’s A+ Pick, Marco Rubio!

As we reflect on this moment in history, it’s becoming clear that one person might emerge as the most influential figure of the Trump administration’s second term.

His diplomatic efforts to bring about an end to the war in Ukraine could have far-reaching consequences.

And his recent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Riyadh marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy.

For the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, high-level officials from both nations have engaged in direct talks aimed at resolving the conflict.

And his approach has been multifaceted and pragmatic, emphasizing the need for concessions from all parties involved and recognizing the complex nature of this conflict.

(Unlike the one-dimensional coverage that the Western media has presented.)

He sees the potential for a new era of cooperation between the United States and Russia which could “unlock the door” for “incredible opportunities” in areas of mutual interest.

For example? Western sanctions have inadvertently strengthened the Sino-Russian partnership, pushing Moscow closer to Beijing.

By pursuing diplomatic engagement, the United States could potentially transform Russia into a strategic counterweight against China — whom I believe poses the most significant threat to America.

This forward-thinking approach could lead to improved global stability and enhanced long-term relations between the U.S. and Russia.

So, as we look back on this period, it’s likely that…

… Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s role in bringing about the conclusion of the Ukraine war will be recognized as a turning point in 21st-century diplomacy.

The Secretary’s efforts are already yielding results. Both the U.S. and Russia have agreed to restore diplomatic channels, a crucial step towards normalizing relations

Rubio is laying the groundwork for a structured peace process that could finally bring stability to the region. And a more prosperous future for America.

Market Rundown for Monday, Feb. 24, 2025

S&P 500 futures are up 0.50% to 6,060.

Oil is down 0.25% to $70.20 for a barrel of WTI.

Gold is up 0.30% to $2,962 per ounce.

And Bitcoin’s up 0.20%, just under $96,000.