Discussions are underway between U.S. and Ukrainian officials regarding a potential visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the United States this week. This development is linked to a broader diplomatic initiative led by President Donald Trump, who aims to secure an agreement on Ukraine by Thanksgiving. The outcome of Zelenskyy’s visit hinges on the results of ongoing peace negotiations taking place in Geneva on Sunday.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking from Geneva, highlighted the progress achieved in discussions involving various European and Ukrainian officials. He described the recent meetings as “very meaningful” and noted that further work is necessary. “I think this was a very, very meaningful – I would say probably best – meeting and day we’ve had so far in this entire process,” Rubio stated.
Following his talks with Rubio, Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, expressed optimism about the negotiations, emphasizing the commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace.” However, a senior official from the White House cautioned that there are currently no definitive plans for Zelenskyy’s visit, given the active nature of ongoing diplomacy.
The negotiations in Geneva could also lead to Army Secretary Dan Driscoll possibly traveling to Russia or meeting with Russian officials elsewhere. As of now, no such meetings have been scheduled, according to U.S. sources.
In relation to the leaked 28-point peace plan, Olga Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S., confirmed that Ukraine has not accepted all the terms outlined in the draft. “This plan is not about justice and the truth of this war and the aggression,” Stefanishyna remarked during an appearance on “Face the Nation.” She indicated that Russia has not made concessions and that the points within the leaked plan do not pressure the Russian side.
Stefanishyna acknowledged the existence of an accompanying document concerning security guarantees, which she described as “the framework of security assurances.” This document reflects the U.S. intention to provide defense commitments akin to Article 5 of the NATO Treaty, though it lacks the detailed assurances and Congressional backing typically associated with treaties.
The urgency of the discussions stems from perceptions regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin‘s intentions in the Donetsk region. According to a U.S. official, there is a belief that Putin aims to secure control over Donetsk, whether through negotiation or military action. While the U.S. has not publicly assessed Ukraine’s current military standing, reports indicate concerning developments in the eastern frontline city of Pokrovsk, considered crucial for Ukraine’s logistics.
The Trump administration’s diplomatic efforts have faced challenges as various factions within the administration pursue parallel negotiations. Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, alongside U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has been working on a “term sheet” intended to facilitate a resolution to the conflict, mirroring previous efforts in other geopolitical contexts.
While the administration has imposed sanctions on Russian oil and gas to bring Putin to the negotiating table, discussions have also occurred with Russian officials, including Kirill Dmitriev, who played a role in the drafting of the contentious peace proposal now being considered.
Concerns expressed by U.S. lawmakers reflect the complexity of the situation. Senators, including Jeanne Shaheen, have raised alarms about the implications of conceding significant territory to Russia and the inadequacy of the proposed security guarantees. “There are many problems with the plan as it has been reported,” Senator Angus King stated, advocating for a more equitable agreement.
Driscoll’s involvement in the negotiations has expanded from discussions on drone technology to the crucial area of security guarantees for Ukraine. His recent adjustments to diplomatic efforts come in the wake of the leaked plan, which was publicized by an opposition politician in Ukraine.
As this diplomatic process unfolds, the Trump administration is actively engaging with lawmakers to address concerns surrounding the proposed concessions to Russia. This includes outreach to influential figures within the Republican Party who have expressed apprehensions about the negotiations.
The coming days will be pivotal for Ukraine as it navigates the complexities of international diplomacy and the ongoing conflict. With the stakes high, both U.S. and Ukrainian officials remain committed to pursuing a resolution that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty while addressing the broader geopolitical landscape.
