Abu Dhabi (TDI): US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is meeting with top Ukrainian and Russian officials in Abu Dhabi as Washington pushes for a breakthrough to end the war in Ukraine.
The discussions follow intense talks in Geneva earlier this week, where US and Ukrainian officials sought to narrow differences over a proposed peace plan.
The original 28-point plan, widely seen as favoring Russia, has now been revised to a 19-point framework, incorporating some European suggestions.
Key issues, including territorial disputes and Ukraine’s future relations with Russia and the West, remain for decision by US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
Ukrainian officials described the talks as “highly productive.” Oleksandr Bevz, an aide to President Zelenskiy, said “The 28-point peace plan as everyone saw it no longer exists; some points have been removed, others have been amended.”
Read More: US, Ukraine Hold Talks in Geneva to Update Proposed Peace Plan
First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya of Ukraine added that a solid basis for convergence had been reached, with a few points left for leadership decisions.
Russia, however, continues to reject European counterproposals, calling them “unconstructive” while praising parts of the US-backed plan. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said that while some provisions were acceptable, further detailed discussion was needed.
European leaders welcomed the Geneva talks but emphasized that any deal affecting Europe or NATO must include their input. German Foreign Minister Johannes Wadephul noted, “All issues concerning Europe or NATO have been removed from this plan, which is a decisive success.”
President Trump has set a Thursday deadline for agreement on the plan, though he indicated it could be extended if progress is evident.
He expressed cautious optimism on social media, writing, “Is it really possible that big progress is being made in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine??? Don’t believe it until you see it, but something good just may be happening.”
Minahil Khurshid
Minahil Khurshid holds a Master's in Peace and Conflict Studies from NUST. She is passionate about current affairs, public policy, and geopolitics.
