NATO chief Rutte praises U.S.-backed peace plan for Ukraine as dialogue starter

"There is a lot of work ahead, of course, but yesterday's meeting between the Ukrainian and American teams was very successful [the Nov. 23 Geneva talks — ed.]," Rutte said. "It was based on this plan. I will not analyze every line, but clearly, as a foundation, it served its purpose yesterday — prompting the two sides into genuine dialogue."

Rutte noted that negotiations between Ukraine and the United States on the peace framework will continue beyond Geneva. The end goal, he said, must be a sovereign Ukraine and a strong nation that Russia will never again attempt to invade — "and that is what American President Donald Trump is working toward."

"There are good elements in the plan, while others really need to be thought through and worked out," Rutte added.

He also revealed a phone call with Trump, "like many others, to ensure the Geneva talks start from the best possible position," although Rutte did not elaborate.

The Geneva talks between the United States and Ukraine on the peace plan took place on Nov. 23, led by Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak for Ukraine.

A joint statement said the delegations prepared an updated framework document on peace settlement. Final decisions will be made by the presidents of Ukraine and the United States.

News agency RBC-Ukraine reported on Nov. 24 that Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump could meet this week or next, though no exact date was discussed in Geneva. Later, the White House stated that no leaders' meeting is scheduled for this week.

U.S. President Donald Trump previously confirmed he wants Zelenskyy to agree to the “peace plan” by Thanksgiving on Nov. 27.

The Financial Times, citing sources familiar with the discussions, reported on Nov. 24 that the U.S.-backed peace plan was shortened from 28 to 19 points after the Geneva talks.