High-level emergency talks are taking place in Geneva today as Western officials grapple with a controversial American draft plan to end Russia's war in Ukraine, a proposal that has sparked deep concern in Kyiv and European capitals.
The Controversial US Proposal
The 28-point draft plan, which was unexpectedly leaked last week, outlines terms that many European and Ukrainian officials consider heavily favour Moscow despite Russia launching the full-scale invasion in February 2022. The document includes several proposals that Ukraine had previously ruled out as unacceptable.
Among the most contentious elements are requirements for Kyiv to hand over areas of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region to Russian control. The plan further demands that Ukraine significantly limit its military capabilities and formally relinquish its longstanding ambition to join the NATO alliance.
In exchange, the proposal offers Ukraine "reliable security guarantees," though it crucially fails to specify what these would entail or which nations would provide them. Washington has given Kyiv a tight deadline of Thursday to respond to the draft, increasing pressure on the Ukrainian government.
International Reaction and Emergency Response
The proposal has been met with alarm in European diplomatic circles. Multiple officials from both European and Ukrainian governments have characterised the plan as amounting to a "capitulation" that would reward Russian aggression.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that his country faces one of the most difficult moments in its history, reflecting the immense pressure Ukraine is under to negotiate while maintaining its sovereignty.
In response to the developing crisis, national security advisers from the E3 nations - France, Britain and Germany - have hastily convened in Geneva for urgent discussions. They are meeting with EU, American and Ukrainian officials to address the controversial proposal.
Key Players and Uncertain Future
The American delegation includes US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, indicating the importance Washington places on these negotiations. Ukraine's delegation is led by Andriy Yermak, head of President Zelenskyy's office, and includes top security officials.
Adding to the uncertainty, US President Donald Trump has stated the plan is "by far" not the "final offer", suggesting an extension to the response deadline could be possible. President Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over the lack of progress in negotiations.
As diplomatic efforts intensify in Geneva, Ukraine continues to seek significant changes to the draft plan, setting the stage for a crucial week in determining the future direction of the conflict and potential peace terms.
