US and Ukrainian officials have described recent peace talks in Geneva as highly productive, with both sides agreeing to continue intensive work on a refined peace framework to end the Russia-Ukraine war. The discussions on November 23, 2025, resulted in an updated framework, marking significant progress.
The joint statement from the White House characterized the talks as constructive, focused, and respectful, underscoring a shared commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace. Both sides agreed that the consultations were highly productive and showed meaningful progress toward aligning positions. They reaffirmed that any future agreement must fully uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and ensure a sustainable peace. The Ukrainian delegation expressed gratitude for the United States’ steadfast commitment and President Trump’s efforts to end the war.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported a “tremendous amount of progress” in refining the US-backed peace plan, though he noted that some work remains before a final agreement can be presented to Russia. Rubio emphasized that the goal was to narrow “open items” from the 28-point plan, and significant strides were made. However, any final deal must be approved by the presidents of Ukraine and the United States, with ongoing negotiations on remaining issues.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated positive signals, stating that Trump’s team is “hearing us,” which followed Trump’s earlier comments accusing Ukraine of showing “zero gratitude” for US efforts. This dialogue occurs amid continued Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution. The war has caused extensive loss of life and destruction, adding pressure to the peace process.
The leaked US draft plan, details of which emerged last week, includes contentious provisions such as Ukraine withdrawing troops from parts of Donetsk it controls and international recognition of Russian annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea. It also proposes freezing borders in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, capping Ukraine’s military at 600,000 personnel, and preventing NATO membership, instead offering security guarantees. The plan suggests reintegrating Russia into the global economy by lifting sanctions and rejoining the G7.
European allies, led by the UK, France, and Germany, have drafted an alternative peace proposal, as reported by media outlets like Reuters, though Rubio denied awareness of it. The joint US-Ukraine statement affirmed close contact with European partners, emphasizing the importance of multilateral coordination. This reflects the complex international dynamics, with Europe being a key ally to Ukraine and a significant player in the conflict.
Looking forward, both sides have committed to intensive work in the coming days to further refine the proposals. Rubio expressed optimism about reaching an agreement “in a very reasonable period of time,” possibly within days or by the following week. The process involves continuous dialogue, with final decisions resting at the presidential level, indicating high-stakes diplomacy.
The progress in Geneva is a crucial development in the long-running war, with potential implications for regional security and global politics. A successful peace deal could lead to Ukraine’s reconstruction and stability, while failure might prolong the conflict and its humanitarian toll. The talks represent a hopeful step towards de-escalation and a resolution to one of Europe’s most significant conflicts.
