Ukrainian negotiators met with senior US officials in Florida pn Sunday to discuss Washington’s proposed framework for ending Russia’s war, as Kyiv faces mounting military and political pressures. Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner represented the US in talks with the Ukrainian delegation ahead of planned US discussions in Moscow with Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine’s Rustem Umerov posted that the meeting focused on steps toward a “just peace,” though a source later described the talks as difficult and ongoing. The discussions centred on revisions to a 28-point draft plan that critics say initially leaned too far toward Russian demands. Rubio said that any agreement must ensure Ukraine remains sovereign, independent, and positioned for long-term prosperity.
Umerov thanked the US for its support, a message seen as aimed at Donald Trump, who has previously questioned Ukraine’s gratitude. Rubio later said progress was made but more work is required, especially with Russia as a necessary participant in future talks. Meanwhile, deadly attacks over the weekend underscored the urgency of reaching a settlement, as Russian drones and missiles killed and injured civilians around Kyiv.
The US has already modified earlier proposals after pushback from Kyiv and European allies, who insist that no territory seized by Russia can be recognised. With Ukraine under internal political strain and facing Russian advances, President Zelenskyy says he will not betray the country, while European leaders continue to pressure Putin to accept a ceasefire or face harsher consequences.
Zelensky meets Macron in Paris on Monday.
A missile hit on a block of flats close to Kyiv on Sunday
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