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US-Ukraine peace talks in Florida show progress, Rubio says
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described Sunday's negotiations with Ukrainian officials in Hallandale Beach, Florida, as "productive," though he cautioned that "more work to be done" to finalize a deal aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The discussions follow two weeks of intensified diplomacy triggered by a leaked US peace proposal that drew criticism for allegedly favoring Moscow.
Key participants and agenda
Ukraine's delegation was led by Rustem Umerov, the newly appointed chief negotiator and secretary of the National Security Council, who replaced Andriy Yermak after his resignation amid an anti-corruption raid. Joining the US side were President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff-scheduled to travel to Moscow on Monday-and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law.
Umerov framed the talks as focused on "the future of Ukraine," emphasizing security guarantees, economic recovery, and preventing further Russian aggression. "US is hearing us. US is supporting us. US is working beside us," he told reporters in English, later calling the session "productive and successful."
"It's not just about the terms that end fighting. It's about the terms that set up Ukraine for long-term prosperity... I think we built on that today, but there's more work to be done."
Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State
Trump's remarks and next steps
Speaking aboard Air Force One, President Trump characterized the negotiations as "going along well" and expressed optimism about reaching a deal. He confirmed plans to dispatch Witkoff-and potentially Kushner-to Moscow this week for direct talks with President Vladimir Putin. The US peace plan, initially criticized for its perceived concessions to Russia, has undergone "much revision," according to Trump.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a social media post, welcomed the "constructive dynamic" of the discussions, stressing that all issues were addressed with a focus on "ensuring Ukraine's sovereignty and national interests." He thanked the US and Trump for their efforts to broker peace.
Unresolved challenges
A source close to the Ukrainian delegation told AFP the talks were "not easy," but noted a shared commitment to finding solutions. The status of Russian-annexed or occupied Ukrainian territories remains a critical stumbling block. Meanwhile, Zelensky is set to visit Paris on Monday for meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron, a key ally.
Conflict background
The war, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion on 24 February 2022, has killed or injured tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians, displaced at least seven million refugees, and devastated swathes of Ukraine. Tensions trace back to 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatist uprisings in eastern Ukraine after Ukraine's pro-Russian president was ousted.
