In a significant diplomatic development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that recent discussions with Ukraine aimed at negotiating a deal to conclude the Russia-Ukraine war were productive. The talks, held in Florida, included a Ukrainian delegation led by Rustem Umerov, the newly appointed chief negotiator and secretary of Ukraine's National Security Council. This meeting also featured President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who is expected to play a crucial role in future negotiations.
The high-stakes meeting follows a recent tumult in Ukraine's political landscape, particularly the resignation of Andriy Yermak, the previous chief negotiator, after a significant anti-corruption raid at his residence. The gathering in Hallandale Beach, located just north of Miami, marks the latest step in a series of diplomatic engagements over the past two weeks, spurred by the leak of a controversial 28-point US peace plan. This plan, which many saw as favoring Russia, has raised eyebrows among Ukraine and its European allies since the conflict began nearly four years ago.
During the meeting, Rubio emphasized that the discussions go beyond merely halting the fighting. He stated, “It’s about also the terms that set up Ukraine for long-term prosperity.” He reassured the Ukrainian delegation that the ultimate goal of the peace talks is to ensure that Ukraine remains a sovereign, independent, and prosperous nation. Umerov echoed these sentiments, highlighting the discussions focused on the future of Ukraine, including its security and the prevention of further aggression.
Umerov expressed gratitude for the support from the United States, stating, “The US is hearing us. The US is supporting us. The US is working beside us.” Both Umerov and Rubio described the talks as productive and successful, indicating a constructive atmosphere despite the complexities involved. Meanwhile, Trump, speaking from Air Force One, expressed optimism, mentioning that the negotiations are progressing well and hinted at a promising chance of reaching an agreement to end the ongoing conflict.
In a statement posted on social media, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of maintaining a constructive dynamic in the negotiations and ensuring that all discussions are focused on safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty and national interests. He expressed gratitude to the US and Trump for their ongoing efforts to mediate and potentially resolve the conflict.
Despite the positive tone of the talks, significant issues remain unresolved, particularly regarding the fate of Ukrainian territories that Russia has either annexed or currently controls. According to a source close to the Ukrainian delegation, while the discussions in Florida were challenging, there is a collective effort to remain constructive and find a viable solution. Zelensky is set to visit Paris shortly for further discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, a key ally in this ongoing diplomatic effort.
The impact of the Russia-Ukraine war has been devastating, resulting in tens of thousands of soldiers killed or injured, as well as countless civilian casualties. Since the invasion on February 24, 2022, at least seven million people have been displaced, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to this protracted conflict. The roots of this crisis trace back to 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea following the ousting of Ukraine’s pro-Russian president, leading to a series of armed uprisings in eastern Ukraine.