US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that progress has been made in discussions aimed at finalizing a US-proposed peace plan for the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Following meetings with Ukrainian and European negotiators in Geneva, Switzerland, Rubio indicated that further work is required.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on the discussions, stating there were "signals that President [Donald] Trump's team is hearing us." Ukraine and its European allies had previously expressed concerns regarding leaked proposals, which were perceived as favorable to Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin had referred to these proposals as "the basis" for a settlement. Zelensky had also previously remarked that Ukraine "might face a very difficult choice: either losing dignity, or risk losing a key partner."
Rubio reported on Sunday that the negotiating teams in Geneva had an effective day, focused on narrowing "open items" within the 28-point US plan. He stated that the parties achieved this goal significantly. Rubio further clarified that any final agreement would require approval from both the Ukrainian and US presidents before being presented to Russia, noting that several issues remain to be addressed.
Media outlets have reported the existence of an alternative plan from Kyiv's European allies, including the UK, France, and Germany. The BBC has not independently verified this document, and Secretary Rubio denied knowledge of its existence.
Earlier on Sunday, President Trump accused Ukraine's leaders of demonstrating "zero gratitude" for US efforts to conclude the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump also observed that European nations, considered key allies to Kyiv, continue to purchase oil from Russia. Russia's economy relies substantially on its oil and gas exports to fund its military operations in Ukraine.