U.S., Ukraine say Geneva talks make ‘progress’ but differences remain

U.S. and Ukrainian officials said their Geneva talks on a U.S.-proposed 28-point plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war made progress, though major differences remain. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak called the discussions “productive” and said both sides are getting closer to an agreed text, but key issues still require approval from their presidents and further coordination with European partners.

Rubio declined to share details, noting unresolved points involving language, security guarantees, and the roles of the EU and NATO. Ukraine emphasized that any peace steps must be effective and realistic. Russia has not yet responded, though President Putin said the plan could serve as a basis for peace.

Reports suggest Ukraine and European governments are unhappy with parts of the U.S. plan, and some say Europe never formally received it. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed that any resolution must satisfy Ukraine and European partners. Experts say the plan faces major obstacles because U.S., European, Russian, and Ukrainian interests diverge, making final implementation uncertain.

Credit : CGTN