US “Very Optimistic” Ukraine Peace Plan Reached “Very Soon”: Rubio Cites 28-Point Proposal
The United States has expressed a strong sense of optimism regarding the swift finalization of a peace plan to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During recent talks held in Switzerland with Ukrainian and European officials, significant headway was reported by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He stated on Sunday that “a tremendous amount of progress” has been made on a US proposal aimed at concluding Russia’s nearly four-year war on Ukraine.
While specific details remain scarce, Rubio conveyed a positive outlook to reporters at the US mission in Geneva. “We’ve really moved forward, so I feel very optimistic that we’re going to get there in a very reasonable period of time, very soon,” he said. This optimism stems from the narrowing down of unresolved issues within a comprehensive 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, a proposal championed by US President Donald Trump.
Key Issues and Progress on the Peace Plan
Rubio acknowledged that work is still required on crucial aspects, including the role of NATO in future security arrangements and the provision of concrete security guarantees for Ukraine. However, he emphasized that his team has successfully addressed and clarified many of the previously outstanding points within the 28-point framework. “And we have achieved that today in a very substantial way,” he noted, highlighting the collaborative effort in Geneva.
Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine’s delegation, echoed Rubio’s positive assessment. He informed reporters that the discussions yielded “very good progress” and that the parties are “moving forward to the just and lasting peace Ukrainian people deserve.” This mutual sentiment suggests a shared commitment to finding a resolution to the protracted conflict.
President Trump’s Stance and Ukrainian Gratitude
Earlier statements from President Trump had indicated a perception of a lack of gratitude from Ukraine for US efforts to broker peace. “UKRAINE ‘LEADERSHIP’ HAS EXPRESSED ZERO GRATITUDE FOR OUR EFFORTS, AND EUROPE CONTINUES TO BUY OIL FROM RUSSIA,” Trump posted on his social media site. This remark prompted an immediate response from Ukrainian officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took to X (formerly Twitter) shortly after Trump’s post, expressing his country’s deep appreciation. “We are grateful to the United States … and personally to President Trump” for the assistance that has been “saving Ukrainian lives,” Zelenskyy stated. This exchange underscores the delicate diplomatic balance and the importance of maintaining strong US-Ukraine relations.
Potential Direct Talks and Plan Revisions
Speculation is mounting that President Zelenskyy might visit the US in the coming days for direct discussions with President Trump, according to a report by CBS News, which cited unnamed US and Ukrainian officials. Such a meeting could further accelerate the peace process.
It is understood that President Trump had previously set a deadline of November 27 for Ukraine to approve his 28-point plan. However, Kyiv has reportedly sought modifications to the draft, which includes provisions that accept several of Russia’s stringent demands. These demands reportedly involve Ukraine ceding territory, reducing its military size, and pledging not to join NATO.
Concerns and the “Living Document” Approach
The specifics of the proposed peace plan have reportedly caused concern in Kyiv and across European capitals. President Zelenskyy has previously articulated that Ukraine might face a difficult choice between upholding its sovereign rights and securing the vital US support it requires for its defense and recovery.
When questioned about the possibility of reaching a deal by the Thursday deadline proposed by President Trump, Rubio reiterated the urgency. “The deadline is we want to get this done as soon as possible,” he commented. He further described the US proposal as a “living, breathing document,” implying that it remains open to further negotiation and adaptation.
Russian Involvement and Future Steps
Rubio also emphasized that any finalized peace agreement would ultimately need to be presented to Moscow for consideration. “Obviously, the Russians get a vote here,” he stated, acknowledging Russia’s critical role in any potential resolution. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously indicated that the US blueprint could “lay the foundation” for a final peace settlement, while also issuing threats of further land seizures should Ukraine withdraw from negotiations.
