Ukraine is increasingly turning to its European allies to counter American pressure for a peace deal with Russia that could potentially compromise its sovereignty. This strategic pivot comes as top Ukrainian negotiators convene in Miami with senior aides to US President Donald Trump.
Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov conveyed optimism following the Florida meeting on Sunday, which took place at 3 a.m. AEDT on Monday. The talks involved US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and presidential envoy Steve Witkoff. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reached out to European leaders in a series of calls, expressing concerns over the White House’s favored peace terms.
European Support Amid US Negotiations
Zelensky is set to meet French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday, reinforcing his efforts to secure European backing. Rubio described the Miami talks as productive but acknowledged that significant work remains in the quest for a sustainable peace agreement.
“It’s not just about the terms that ends fighting,” Rubio stated. “It’s about also the terms that set up Ukraine for long-term prosperity. I think we built on that today, but there’s more work to be done.”
Rubio emphasized that any resolution must ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence, alongside opportunities for real prosperity. This stance appears to align with Ukrainian calls for a peace outcome that safeguards their national integrity.
Internal Challenges and New Negotiation Team
Amidst external pressures, Ukraine is grappling with internal challenges following a corruption scandal that led to the dismissal of Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. In response, Zelensky dispatched a new negotiation team, led by Umerov, to Miami. This team also included Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and the head of Ukraine’s armed forces, Andrii Hnatov.
After the Miami meeting, Umerov expressed gratitude for American support, stating, “US is hearing us. US is supporting us. US is working beside us.” However, details of any agreements remain undisclosed.
“Our objective is a prosperous, strong Ukraine,” Umerov added. “We discussed all the important matters that are important for Ukraine, for Ukrainian people, and US was super supportive.”
The Miami discussions are set to be followed by negotiations with the Kremlin, with Witkoff and Jared Kushner planning to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin and his advisers in the coming days.
Corruption Scandal and Government Reshuffle
The Ukrainian government has been in turmoil due to a corruption scandal involving alleged kickbacks in the energy sector. This has resulted in the resignations of Justice Minister German Galushchenko and Energy Minister Svitlana Grynchuk on November 12. Investigators have implicated Timur Mindich, a former television executive linked to Zelensky, who has reportedly fled to Israel.
In an effort to stabilize his administration, Zelensky announced that Oksana Markarova, a former ambassador to Washington, would serve as his adviser on reconstruction and investment.
European Concerns Over US Peace Plan
While US aides engage with Ukraine and Russia, European leaders have expressed reservations about the peace plan drafted by Witkoff. The plan reportedly includes the swift removal of sanctions on Putin’s government, a move met with skepticism in Europe.
Jean-Noel Barrot, French foreign minister, remarked, “Peace is within reach, if Vladimir Putin abandons his delusional hope of reconstituting the Soviet empire.”
Media leaks and investigative reports have cast Witkoff as potentially favoring Russia, further complicating the peace process. A Bloomberg report revealed a private conversation between Witkoff and a Russian negotiator, while The Wall Street Journal highlighted business ties between Trump allies and Russia.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk questioned the motivations behind the US agenda, stating, “We know this is not about peace. It’s about business.”
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with Ukraine striving to maintain its sovereignty and secure a peace deal that aligns with its national interests. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of these negotiations.
