Talks were held in Florida between U.S. representatives and a Ukrainian delegation to explore a potential agreement aimed at ending the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the discussions as productive, while noting that “more work remains” before any deal can be finalized.

The Ukrainian team was led by Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s new chief negotiator. His appointment followed the resignation of Andriy Yermak, who stepped down after an anti-corruption raid on his residence. The American side included Senator Marco Rubio, President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

The Florida meetings are the latest in a surge of diplomatic activity over the past two weeks. This intensified push began after the leak of a 28-point U.S. peace plan, which raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe due to its perceived concessions to Russia.

Rubio emphasized that the objective of the talks goes beyond securing a ceasefire. He said the U.S. aims to ensure that any agreement supports Ukraine’s long-term security and economic stability, describing the goal as helping Ukraine emerge “sovereign, independent, and prosperous.”

Umerov echoed this message, explaining that discussions focused on Ukraine’s future, national security, preventing further Russian aggression, and enabling reconstruction. He voiced confidence in Washington’s support, saying, “The U.S. is hearing us. The U.S. is supporting us. The U.S. is working beside us.” Both sides later characterized the talks as productive and successful.

Next week, Steve Witkoff is expected to travel to Moscow for further negotiations with President Vladimir Putin regarding the revised peace plan. Jared Kushner may join the visit.

One of the most sensitive and unresolved issues remains the status of Ukrainian territories annexed or occupied by Russia. A source close to the Ukrainian delegation described the discussions in Florida as difficult but said all participants were committed to pursuing a constructive outcome.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also scheduled to meet French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris as part of ongoing allied consultations.

The Russia–Ukraine conflict has deep roots, tracing back to 2014 when Ukraine’s pro-Russian president was ousted, prompting Russia to annex Crimea and back separatist movements in eastern Ukraine. Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, escalated the conflict dramatically. Nearly four years later, it has resulted in tens of thousands of military and civilian deaths and displaced more than seven million people as refugees.