Moscow: Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov stated on Monday that Washington is anticipated to reach out to Moscow shortly to discuss the US-drafted peace plan for Ukraine in person. However, he emphasized that no concrete arrangements for such talks have been finalized.
According to Anadolu Agency, Ushakov conveyed to reporters in Moscow that Russia has received "signals" from the US regarding possible discussions. Nonetheless, no formal proposal has been made concerning who would travel to Moscow or when the discussions might commence. Ushakov mentioned that it is natural to expect the US to contact Russia for an in-person meeting to initiate discussions, but a definitive agreement has not yet been reached.
Ushakov further commented on the ongoing speculation surrounding the US plan and its reported variants, highlighting that Moscow trusts information delivered through official channels. He referenced a statement by Mr. Rubio about satisfactory Geneva talks with the Ukrainians, mentioning 28 points and also 26 points, which adds to the circulating information. Ushakov emphasized that Russia believes only the information conveyed through appropriate channels.
He confirmed Russia's familiarity with one version of the US proposal that aligns with understandings reached during the Alaska talks earlier this year. While many provisions of this plan seem acceptable to Russia, Ushakov noted that other elements require detailed negotiations. He stated that the 28 points in the current draft require thorough discussion between the parties, which has not yet occurred.
When asked about making the current draft public, Ushakov stressed that the document remains under multilateral review and is likely to undergo revisions. He highlighted the seriousness of the matter and noted that the content has not been discussed with Russia in a structured manner.
Concerns have been raised over the 28-point US plan, which aims to end the over three-and-a-half-year war and is currently on the table in Geneva. Representatives from Washington, Kyiv, and European capitals have met to discuss the details. The plan has sparked concerns in Kyiv and among its allies, as it appears to require Ukraine to cede additional territory to Russia, limit its military size, and abandon its NATO bid. Trump has given the Ukrainian leadership until Thursday to respond.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed facing a difficult decision between losing dignity or risking the loss of a key partner. Leaders from nine European countries, Japan, Canada, and top EU officials have also voiced concerns over the plan's proposed limitations on Ukraine's armed forces, warning that they could leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks.