Following discussions on Sunday among senior U.S. and Ukrainian officials focusing on the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about reaching a potential resolution. “I’m feeling very optimistic,” Rubio told reporters after the meeting.

In the talks, Rubio was joined by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, and Jared Kushner, as they engaged with a Ukrainian delegation. They deliberated over a peace proposal, which Rubio noted was crafted by the United States. This proposal incorporated “input from the Russian side” as well as “previous and ongoing input from Ukraine.”

The draft has been perceived by many as overly accommodating to Russia’s interests. In response, several European nations, including Germany, France, and Britain, have put forward an alternative proposal.

For further insight, see: A New Wrinkle: SecState Distances U.S. From ‘Unacceptable’ Ukraine Proposal

“We’re at a very sensitive stage,” Rubio remarked. “Some issues revolve around semantics or language, while others necessitate higher-level decision-making and consultations. There are also aspects that simply require more time to address,” he added.

“This is a very delicate moment,” Rubio said. “Some of it is semantics, or language. Others require higher-level decisions and consultations. Others, I think, just need more time to work through.”

The head of the Ukrainian delegation, presidential chief of staff Andrii Yermak, said, “We have made very good progress and are moving forward to a just and lasting peace.”

The White House released a readout of the talks:

Today, Secretary Rubio, Special Envoy Witkoff, Mr. Jared Kushner, and Secretary Driscoll held an extensive and productive meeting with the Ukrainian delegation to review the latest draft agreements under discussion. The conversation was candid, detailed, and conducted in a spirit of partnership and shared purpose.