Florida hosted another round of negotiations on the evolving US peace proposal for the Russia-Ukraine war, and Rubio calls US-Ukraine talks productive, but more work is needed as both sides try to reduce the political and security gaps still blocking a workable framework. The meeting, held in Hallandale Beach, brought together US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Trump adviser Jared Kushner, and a Ukrainian delegation led by national security chief Rustem Umerov.
According to reporting from US and Ukrainian media, Rubio calls US-Ukraine talks productive, but more work is needed because progress was made on several disputed provisions, yet core issues remain unsettled. The original 28-point US proposal, leaked earlier this month, faced backlash for suggesting limits on Ukraine’s armed forces, delaying NATO integration, and imposing national elections within 100 days. Ukrainian officials and European partners criticised the initial document for appearing to align too closely with Russian demands.
Negotiators spent four hours dissecting revised versions of these terms. Discussions centred on the feasibility of elections during active conflict, the structure of interim security guarantees, and the sequencing of territorial issues in a multi-stage peace process. Sources indicate that Washington is exploring models where elections would be held only after a sustained ceasefire, with international supervision and strict conditions for transparency. Still, Rubio calls US-Ukraine talks productive but more work needed, particularly on territorial compromises, which remain the most politically sensitive component of the framework.
Rubio emphasised that any outcome must ensure Ukraine’s viability: independent governance, stable borders, and a durable security environment. He reiterated that the objective is not merely to temporarily stop fighting, but to create a structure that prevents renewed aggression. Umerov echoed this point, stating that Ukraine requires guarantees that any agreement aligns with public expectations and long-term sovereignty.
Another factor shaping the negotiations is Russia’s deliberate silence. The Kremlin has not signalled whether it is willing to consider a revised framework. This uncertainty is a key reason Rubio calls US-Ukraine talks productive, but more work is needed, as US officials must first test Russia’s reaction before advancing to the next stage. Witkoff’s upcoming trip to Moscow will serve as the first opportunity to present an updated version of the document.
Behind the scenes, Kyiv is balancing two pressures: US demands for swift progress and domestic resistance to concessions perceived as weakening national security. The conversation will continue in follow-up meetings, where negotiators seek adjustments that can satisfy Ukraine, maintain US strategic interests, and still push Russia toward meaningful engagement.
