The United States and Ukraine reported significant progress Sunday in negotiations over a Russia-Ukraine peace deal, officials said. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the first session as “probably the most productive and meaningful meeting” in the process.
Delegations discussed all 28 points of the US-drafted plan, breaking off to refine proposals and narrow differences between Kyiv and Washington. Rubio said remaining issues are “not insurmountable” and described the document as a “living, breathing” text, evolving with ongoing negotiations.
Ukraine’s presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak confirmed positive momentum, saying talks aim to achieve a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the discussions were “substantive” and emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to diplomacy, security guarantees, and defending national interests. The US plan has sparked concern in Kyiv and among allies, as it reportedly asks Ukraine to cede territory, limit its military, and abandon NATO aspirations.
European leaders, Japan, and Canada warned such measures could leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks. Rubio said delegations would continue discussions Sunday night, expressing optimism that a signed agreement could emerge soon.
