The United States has reported significant advancements in negotiating a peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite these developments, no definitive agreement has been reached regarding security guarantees for Kyiv, amid escalating concerns regarding the persistent threat posed by Russia.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio led discussions in Geneva with a high-level Ukrainian delegation following apprehension from Kyiv and its allies. They expressed dissatisfaction with a US-backed proposal that they believe entails major concessions to Russia. During the talks, Rubio acknowledged that while progress had been made, crucial questions regarding NATO’s role and security assurances for Ukraine still require resolution. He emphasized that his team had successfully narrowed down the unresolved issues within a 28-point peace plan, advocated by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“We have achieved substantial progress today,” Rubio stated during a press conference at the U.S. mission in Geneva. Trump’s recent remarks suggested a lack of appreciation from Ukraine for American support, prompting Ukrainian officials to reaffirm their gratitude for U.S. assistance.
European officials participated in the discussions, having crafted a modified version of the U.S. plan that counters proposed limitations on Ukraine’s military capabilities and suggests that any negotiations regarding territorial exchanges should begin from the current front lines, rather than predetermined areas deemed Russian territory.
On March 15, 2024, Trump indicated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has until Thursday to endorse the plan, which includes stipulations for Ukraine to relinquish territory, limit its military, and abandon aspirations to join NATO. For many Ukrainians, including those fighting on the front lines, these terms could be perceived as capitulation after nearly four years of intense conflict, which has become the deadliest in Europe since World War II.
Trump further clarified that the current proposal is not his final offer. Rubio expressed the need for additional time to address outstanding issues, while remaining optimistic that a resolution could be achieved by the deadline, although he acknowledged it might extend beyond that date.
Reports indicate that discussions are underway for Zelenskiy to visit the United States, potentially as early as this week, to discuss the peace plan with Trump. These talks would focus on sensitive issues, including territorial matters.
The atmosphere during the negotiations was tense, particularly as Trump criticized Ukraine’s leadership for showing “zero gratitude” for U.S. efforts while European nations continue purchasing Russian oil. Rubio characterized the discussions as perhaps the most productive the U.S. has held with Ukraine since Trump’s return to power, indicating that modifications would be made to the plan to ensure it aligns with the interests of both Ukraine and the U.S.
Ukrainian delegation leader Andriy Yermak acknowledged Trump’s commitment during a brief interlude in the talks, with Zelenskiy also expressing gratitude soon after.
Since the introduction of the U.S. plan, there has been confusion regarding its development, with European allies claiming they were not adequately consulted. The draft, which incorporates several of Russia’s principal demands, provides vague assurances of “robust security guarantees” for Ukraine, a precarious situation for Kyiv as Russia continues to gain ground in certain areas of the frontline, albeit slowly.
The strategic transportation hub of Pokrovsk has seen partial occupation by Russian forces, and Ukrainian commanders have reported that they lack sufficient troops to counter small yet persistent incursions. Additionally, Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has faced relentless attacks, leaving millions without essential services such as water, heating, and power.
Zelenskiy has cautioned that Ukraine risks losing its dignity and freedom, as well as its backing from Washington, over the terms proposed in the U.S. plan. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful, hoping for a resolution that secures Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability.
