US Expresses High Optimism as Ukraine Peace Talks Conclude in Geneva

US officials report significant progress after high-stakes talks in Geneva. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the advancement on a US-backed peace plan as “tremendous”. The meetings aimed to end the nearly four-year conflict following Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Ukrainian delegation head Andriy Yermak also acknowledged “very good progress”. The talks focused on a controversial 28-point proposal from the US administration that has faced scrutiny for its demands on Ukraine.

Key Demains and Diplomatic Hurdles in the US Proposal

The original US plan, according to reports from Reuters, required major concessions from Ukraine. These included ceding occupied territories to Russia and abandoning its ambition to join NATO. The proposal also demanded a significant reduction in the size of the Ukrainian army.

Kyiv has been seeking substantial changes to the draft. The Ukrainian delegation indicated a newer version better reflects their key priorities. They emphasized working toward a “just and lasting peace” for their people.

Secretary Rubio stated that remaining disagreements are “not insurmountable”. He expressed strong personal belief that a final agreement is within reach. The US delegation included Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and diplomatic envoy Steve Witkoff.

International Reactions and The Path Forward

European leaders scrambled to assert their influence during the talks. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen stressed that Ukraine’s “European destiny” and the EU’s “centrality” must be fully reflected in any final agreement. This came after the US initially drafted its plan without input from Ukraine’s European allies.

World leaders engaged in a flurry of diplomatic calls. The UK Prime Minister and US president agreed on the need for a collective effort for a lasting peace. The “coalition of the willing” countries supporting Kyiv announced an upcoming video call to discuss the situation further.

Despite the optimism, a final deal requires approval from all parties, including Russia. Secretary Rubio acknowledged that “the Russians get a vote” in the ultimate outcome. The path to peace remains complex, but diplomats suggest the Geneva talks have created new momentum.

A final agreement now hinges on bridging the last gaps between the US proposal and Ukrainian requirements. The international community watches closely as the Ukraine peace plan enters its most critical phase. A resolution could be announced in the coming days.

Thought you’d like to know

What are the main points of the US peace plan for Ukraine?

The original 28-point proposal required Ukraine to cede occupied territories and abandon NATO membership. It also demanded a significant reduction in the size of its armed forces. The plan has been a subject of intense international discussion.

How has Europe reacted to the US-led peace efforts?

European leaders have insisted that Ukraine’s sovereign choices and the EU’s role be central to any deal. They were not initially consulted on the US proposal and have since worked to bolster Kyiv’s negotiating position.

What is the current status of the negotiations?

US and Ukrainian officials report “very good progress” after talks in Geneva. A new version of the draft is being discussed, which reportedly addresses more of Ukraine’s key concerns. A few issues remain unresolved.

What role does Russia play in these talks?

While not directly at the Geneva table, the Kremlin’s acceptance is seen as crucial. The US plan was reportedly welcomed by Moscow initially, and any final agreement would require Russian approval to be implemented.

Why was there a deadline for Ukraine to approve the plan?

US President Donald Trump had set a November 27 deadline for Ukraine’s approval. However, US diplomats have since indicated flexibility, focusing on reaching a viable agreement rather than a strict timeline.

Trusted Sources

Agence France-Presse (AFP), Associated Press, Reuters, BBC News