U.S. and Ukrainian officials are in discussions about the potential visit of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the United States this week. This move is part of President Donald Trump‘s efforts to secure an agreement on Ukraine before Thanksgiving, as reported by multiple officials familiar with the ongoing negotiations. The feasibility of Zelenskyy’s trip hinges on the outcomes of peace talks scheduled in Geneva on Sunday.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the progress made during recent discussions with European and Ukrainian officials, calling it one of the most significant meetings since the administration took office. “I think this was a very, very meaningful – I would say probably the best – meeting and day we’ve had so far in this entire process,” Rubio stated. He emphasized that while progress has been made, further work is necessary to achieve a lasting solution.
Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, echoed Rubio’s sentiments, expressing optimism about the negotiations. “We have very good progress and we are moving forward to the just and lasting peace,” Yermak said. Nonetheless, plans for Zelenskyy’s visit remain uncertain due to the fluid nature of the diplomatic efforts.
The discussions in Geneva also involve a leaked 28-point peace plan, which Olga Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S., stated does not fully align with Ukraine’s interests. “This plan is not about justice and the truth of this war and the aggression,” she explained, indicating that Russia has not made any concessions thus far. Additionally, she mentioned another document related to security guarantees, which aims to outline U.S. intentions similar to Article 5 of the NATO treaty, but lacks the binding nature of a formal treaty.
As the diplomatic efforts unfold, a senior U.S. official disclosed that Russian President Vladimir Putin appears confident in asserting control over the Donetsk region, whether through negotiation or military means. While the U.S. administration’s assessment of the situation remains cautious, the trajectory of the conflict suggests increasing Russian advancements in key areas like Pokrovsk.
The Trump administration is currently merging parallel diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine. Notably, Jared Kushner and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff have been working on a “term sheet” aimed at ending the conflict, similar to their approach in the Middle East. There is concern within the administration regarding a potential rift between Rubio and Witkoff, particularly as they navigate the complexities of this situation.
As U.S. lawmakers express concern over the peace plan’s implications, such as perceived concessions to Russia, it is evident that the administration is facing pressure to ensure a balanced approach. Senator Angus King criticized the plan for potentially rewarding Russia’s aggression, urging for a more equitable resolution.
The involvement of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll in these discussions marks a notable shift in the diplomatic approach. Initially set to discuss drone technology in Ukraine, Driscoll’s role has expanded to focus on security guarantees amidst the evolving negotiations. While Driscoll was en route, the leaked peace plan changed the dynamics of his mission, prompting adjustments to align with emerging diplomatic strategies.
As the situation develops, the U.S. administration is actively working to address concerns from senators and lawmakers, including prominent Republican representatives who advocate for continued support for Ukraine. The ongoing negotiations and the forthcoming talks in Geneva will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and security guarantees.
The outcome of these discussions remains to be seen, with both immediate and long-term implications for Ukraine and its relationships with Western allies.
