Rubio: We are studying a Turkish proposal for a partial ceasefire in the Black Sea

The US Secretary explained that the interest in meeting the world's need for grain via the Black Sea has returned to the forefront.

He added: "This is not a new topic, as Turkey has made continuous efforts in this direction in the past, and an agreement was even reached at one point, but it later collapsed."

The US Secretary of State pointed to the urgent nature of the issue, particularly its impact on the African continent, stressing the need "not to overlook the energy dimension" within it.

He indicated that consultations are ongoing with various countries, saying: "We are studying the proposals that Turkey conveyed to us a week or two ago, and we will continue to evaluate efforts in this direction."

Rubio continued: "We want to achieve this, and although it will not end the entire war, it may at least contribute to solving one of its specific dimensions."

He confirmed that his country "wants" to reach a partial ceasefire that guarantees grain shipments, but he expressed caution regarding when that might be achieved, saying he could not set an expected timeframe.

- Ongoing talks for a comprehensive ceasefire

Regarding the Russian-Ukrainian war, Rubio said that large numbers of people have lost their lives in the war, confirming continued talks with both sides in order to end the fighting as soon as possible.

He added: "Regardless of anything else, it is always important to have channels of communication at some level between the United States and Russia, given the risk of future escalation."

In response to a question regarding talks with Ukraine, Rubio said: "We talk to the Ukrainians frequently; in fact, our communication with them is more than our communication with the Russian side, or at least equal to it. But we must be able to talk to the Russian side as well."

He pointed to Moscow's possession of nuclear capabilities, saying: "There is also the fact that Russia possesses a large number of nuclear weapons. Perhaps people have forgotten that, but we would like to remind everyone that this matter is important, regardless of the circumstances."