On Sunday, November 23, 2025, U.S. and Ukrainian delegations convened in Geneva to discuss a 28-point plan aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Representatives from Britain, France and Germany joined earlier briefings, setting the stage for bilateral talks between the U.S. team and the Ukrainian delegation.
In the evening, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, updated reporters. Rubio called the session "the most productive and meaningful" since talks began, noting "good progress." He said negotiators were now reviewing suggestions and narrowing remaining differences.
Yermak echoed that sentiment, describing the discussion as "very productive" and confirming that "very good progress" was made toward a just and lasting peace. He added that both sides would continue working through proposals in the days ahead, alongside European partners.
Despite the optimism, both delegations declined to answer detailed questions, explaining that further consultations and approvals—including presidential sign-off—were still pending. Rubio stressed that open items involve language nuances and the roles of the European Union and NATO, but he remained "very optimistic" about reaching an agreement soon.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also weighed in on social media, emphasizing that steps to end the war must be effective and "fully achievable." Russian President Vladimir Putin has yet to respond to Sunday’s talks, though he indicated on Friday that the 28-point plan could provide a basis for peace.
Across Europe, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged consensus among Ukraine and its European partners, warning that reliable security guarantees are essential. Meanwhile, Professor Diao Daming of Renmin University of China highlighted the plan’s challenges, pointing to diverging interests and geopolitical dynamics that could affect its final implementation.
As Geneva discussions continue this week, negotiators face the task of bridging remaining gaps and turning progress into a concrete framework for lasting peace.
Reference(s):
U.S., Ukraine say Geneva talks make 'progress' but differences remain
cgtn.com
