ORIGIN OF US PLAN STIRS CONTROVERSY
The primary talks between US and Ukrainian officers acquired below manner in a stiff ambiance on the US mission, quickly after Trump complained in a Reality Social submit that Ukraine’s management had proven “zero gratitude” to the US for its efforts and Europe continued to purchase Russian oil.
Rubio interrupted the assembly to talk to reporters, saying the talks had been in all probability the most effective the US had held with Ukraine since Trump returned to energy.
He mentioned modifications can be made to the plan to work in direction of an answer that each Ukraine and the US may assist.
“Clearly this may in the end need to be signed off with our presidents, though I really feel very comfy about that taking place given the progress we have made,” mentioned Rubio.
Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian delegation, was at pains to thank Trump for his dedication to Kyiv in the course of the temporary interlude. Minutes later, Zelenskyy additionally thanked Trump.
Yermak didn’t reappear with Rubio when the talks ended.
Rubio has departed Geneva en route again to Washington, a senior State Division official mentioned.
For the reason that US plan was introduced, there was confusion about who was concerned in drawing it up. European allies mentioned they’d not been consulted.
Earlier than heading to Geneva, Rubio insisted on X that Washington had authored the plan after remarks from some US senators suggesting in any other case.
Senator Angus King mentioned Rubio had informed senators the plan was not the administration’s place, however “basically the wish-list of the Russians”.
