US-Ukrainian talks in Florida: A plan to end the war
The US state of Florida witnessed intense diplomatic activity as Ukrainian and American negotiators held a new round of high-level talks aimed at establishing a practical framework for ending the ongoing war with Russia. These meetings come at a critical juncture, as Kyiv faces mounting pressure both on the military front and in the corridors of international politics.
Positive atmosphere despite the complications
Both sides described Sunday’s talks as “productive” and “successful,” despite acknowledging the significant challenges that remain. The Ukrainian delegation was headed by Rustam Umarov, Secretary of the National Security Council, while the American side included prominent figures reflecting the weight of the new administration, most notably Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Wojcoff, and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, indicating direct interest from the president’s inner circle in the settlement process.
At the conclusion of the sessions, Marco Rubio stated: “We held another very productive session, but there is still more work to be done.” This was confirmed by Umarov, who indicated that the discussions focused on Ukraine’s security future, mechanisms to prevent a recurrence of aggression, and comprehensive reconstruction plans.
The American peace plan: sticking points
The talks are based on a draft 28-point US plan to end the conflict, a plan that has sparked considerable controversy in European and Ukrainian circles. Leaks indicate that the initial draft included difficult provisions, such as the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from areas in Donetsk and implicit recognition of Russia's de facto control over Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk.
Despite subsequent modifications to the plan, informed sources confirmed that the issue of borders and sovereignty remains the biggest obstacle. Washington, which now presents itself as a mediator to end the war rather than an unconditional military backer, is seeking a compromise formula that would allow Washington and Moscow to sit down at the negotiating table directly—a strategic shift in the course of the conflict.
International context and internal changes
These talks are of paramount importance given their direct impact on European security. While negotiations are underway in Florida, French President Emmanuel Macron is preparing to host his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, in Paris, in an effort to coordinate European positions and ensure that the continent is not sidelined in any future settlement imposed by the major powers.
Domestically, these developments come amid a major political upheaval in Kyiv, marked by the dismissal of Andriy Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian president's office, following investigations into corruption. Observers believe this move may be part of Kyiv's response to US demands for greater transparency and institutional reform as prerequisites for advancing support and peace plans.
The question remains: Will Florida's diplomacy succeed in formulating a solution that satisfies Ukraine's aspirations for sovereignty and meets Russia's security demands, or is the road to peace still long and thorny?
