Urgent Talks in Geneva as US, Ukraine Face Thursday Deadline
UPDATE: Top US and Ukrainian officials are meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, today as the clock ticks down to a crucial Thursday deadline to finalize a controversial 28-point peace plan proposed by the Trump administration. This high-stakes discussion comes amid growing concerns from European allies about the implications of the plan, which could reshape the future of Ukraine.
The meeting, which includes US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, aims to clarify the terms of the proposal before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meets with Trump. A US official confirmed that this is a pivotal moment for both Ukraine and its allies as they grapple with the proposal’s potential impact.
In addition to US officials, national security advisers from Germany, France, and the United Kingdom will be present, emphasizing the collaborative effort to address the situation. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is also set to speak with Zelensky today about the peace plan, as reported by Reuters.
As discussions unfold in Geneva, a separate meeting between a Russian delegation and US officials is being planned to further discuss the proposal, although details remain sparse. The urgency of these talks stems from a recent gathering of Western leaders at the G20 summit in South Africa, where they expressed both support for diplomatic efforts and significant reservations about the draft plan.
“The proposed limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces are a particular area of worry,” stated the European Council, highlighting the need for further negotiation.
Critics argue that Trump’s proposal could lead to an uneven agreement that favors Moscow, requiring Ukraine to cede territory and limit its military capabilities in exchange for a cessation of hostilities. Such terms have left European leaders scrambling to assert their influence and ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty is prioritized.
The stakes are particularly high as European leaders attempt to balance their support for Ukraine while navigating their relationship with the US. The urgency of today’s talks reflects the rising tension and the critical nature of the decisions being made. “This is not the final offer,” Trump indicated, suggesting there may still be room for adjustment.
As the clock ticks down to the Thursday deadline, the outcomes of today’s discussions in Geneva will be pivotal. Observers are watching closely for any shifts in strategy from both the US and European allies, as well as the potential reactions from Russia.
Stay tuned for real-time updates on this developing story as we continue to monitor the situation and its implications for Ukraine and international relations.
