London Talks On Ending Russia-Ukraine War Pared Down Following Rubio’s Cancellation

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A meeting scheduled for Wednesday involving senior U.S., British, French, and Ukrainian diplomats to advance a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine was canceled at the last minute. U.S. Vice President JD Vance indicated that negotiations are at a critical juncture, stating that a clear proposal has been put forward to both Russia and Ukraine. Vance emphasized the need for a decision from the two parties, noting that the proposal involves freezing territorial boundaries at a level similar to the current situation, requiring concessions from both sides. However, specific details of the proposal were not disclosed.

These developments followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s rejection of any territorial concessions to Russia in a potential peace deal, describing it as non-negotiable. Zelenskyy expressed readiness for negotiations in any format that could lead to a ceasefire and pave the way for comprehensive peace talks, while also mourning the loss of nine civilians in a recent attack.

The talks in London to end the prolonged conflict, initially planned to include high-ranking officials, were downgraded to involve lower-level representatives only after the U.S. State Department announced Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s inability to attend due to a scheduling conflict. The sudden change raised doubts about the trajectory of the negotiations, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioning that significant differences remained unresolved between the parties.

Efforts to secure even a limited 30-day ceasefire have faced challenges, as ongoing hostilities persist along the frontlines. A recent tragic incident involving a Russian drone attack on a bus in eastern Ukraine resulted in casualties, underscoring the urgency for a cessation of violence.

Despite uncertainties surrounding the talks, a delegation from Ukraine arrived in London to participate in the discussions, underscoring the country’s commitment to seeking peaceful solutions. Ukrainian officials reiterated their willingness to engage in negotiations while standing firm on not surrendering territory.

In a separate development, Ukrainian leaders have rebuffed proposals suggesting the ceding of control over Ukrainian territories to Russia, asserting the sovereignty of Ukrainian lands. The path to a lasting peace remains complex, with various stakeholders navigating diverging interests and proposals amid the ongoing conflict.

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Novikov reported from Kyiv and Madhani from Washington. Angela Charlton in Paris contributed.

Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine