US and Ukraine Seek Pathway to Peace

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described talks with Ukrainian officials in Florida as “productive” but acknowledged they remain “complicated,” as Washington and Kyiv work on a peace plan to end Russia’s war.

The Ukrainian delegation was led by Rustem Umerov, head of Kyiv’s National Security and Defence Council, with US envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner also participating. Rubio stressed that discussions aim to create “reliable security guarantees” for Ukraine while preparing for Witkoff’s upcoming talks in Moscow with Russian officials.

“It is about securing Ukraine’s future, a future that we hope will be more prosperous than it’s ever been,” Rubio said.

---

Background of the Peace Plan

The talks follow revisions to Trump’s original 28-point plan, which faced criticism for favoring Russian interests. The revised 19-point plan now seeks to better safeguard Ukrainian sovereignty, although exact details remain undisclosed.

Umerov emphasized Kyiv’s priorities on safeguarding Ukrainian interests, ensuring substantive dialogue, and advancing progress from previous Geneva meetings.

“We discussed all the important matters for Ukraine, and the US was super supportive,” Umerov said.

---

Next Steps

• Witkoff is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin this week to discuss the Donbas and Crimea regions, key points of contention in the conflict.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continues to navigate challenges at home, including a recent corruption scandal that led to the resignation of his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak.
• French President Emmanuel Macron will host Zelenskyy in Paris on Monday for further discussions.

Rubio stressed the talks are delicate, noting Russia is a central player in the equation.

“Obviously, there’s another party involved here that will have to be a part of the equation,” he said.

---

Situation on the Ground

Meanwhile, Russian forces continue attacks across Ukraine. A drone strike near Kyiv killed one and injured 11, while previous attacks across the country claimed six lives and cut power to 400,000 households.

Ukraine also targeted two oil tankers in the Black Sea, believed to be transporting sanctioned Russian oil, highlighting ongoing covert operations to weaken Russia’s energy resources.

---

Key Takeaways

• Florida talks seen as productive but complex.
• US and Ukraine working on security guarantees and peace framework.
• Witkoff to meet Russia in Moscow this week.
• Ukrainian domestic challenges and ongoing Russian military attacks add urgency.