U.S. Excited about Russia-Ukraine War Ending Soon

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emerged from high-stakes negotiations in Geneva on Sunday, declaring the session "probably the most productive day we have had on this issue" in the ongoing efforts to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine. The talks, part of a renewed push under the Trump administration, focused on refining a foundational document aimed at ending the nearly four-year conflict that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and reshaped global alliances.

Rubio, addressing reporters after hours of closed-door discussions with Ukrainian officials and European allies, emphasized the momentum built over recent weeks. "We had a very good day today. I think we made a tremendous amount of progress even from the last time I spoke to you," he said, apologizing for the delay due to extended deliberations.

He detailed how the process began nearly three weeks ago with a "foundational document" incorporating input from both sides, informed by 10 months of U.S. engagement that has given negotiators insight into each party's "priorities, red lines, and important issues."

The document, which Rubio described as an "ongoing working document," started with 26 to 28 points and has been narrowed through intensive consultations. In the last 96 hours alone, U.S. teams, including Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth, have been on the ground in Kyiv, meeting with Ukrainian lawmakers, executives, military leaders, and other stakeholders across the political spectrum to refine the framework.

"We arrived here today with one goal: to take what were 28 points or 26 points, depending on the version, and try to narrow the ones that were [outstanding]," Rubio explained, noting the talks yielded an "updated and refined peace framework."

Optimism from Rubio contrasts with cautious signals from other quarters. President Donald Trump, posting on Truth Social, expressed skepticism: "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."

Meanwhile, the Kremlin dismissed the emerging proposals as "not constructive," with a spokesperson stating, "It does not work for us," signaling potential roadblocks ahead.

The Geneva summit builds on Trump's vow to end the war swiftly upon taking office in January 2025, amid growing U.S. fatigue over billions in aid to Ukraine. The conflict, sparked by Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, has seen territorial gains by Moscow in eastern Ukraine, devastating infrastructure, and a humanitarian crisis displacing millions.

Recent developments include a fragile ceasefire in some areas and indirect backchannel talks, but deep divisions remain over issues like territorial concessions, NATO membership for Ukraine, and security guarantees.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has resisted ceding land, may travel to the U.S. this week to finalize details, according to sources.

Rubio stressed that while "a couple of outstanding issues" persist, teams are working intensively toward a deal by Thursday, coinciding with U.S. Thanksgiving, or early next week.

He clarified that the proposal originated from the U.S. but incorporates Russian input, countering earlier claims it was a unilateral "final offer."

Could this be the turning point, or just another false dawn in a war that has tested international resolve?