Overview
- Marco Rubio has taken charge of talks to revise the controversial U.S. proposal, trimming it from 28 to 19 points and easing an original timetable during negotiations in Geneva.
- The initial draft, developed with Kremlin adviser Kirill Dmitrijew, drew criticism as aligning with Russian demands; JD Vance publicly backed that version while Rubio moved to rework it.
- Reports describe competing channels inside the administration, with envoy Steve Witkoff’s effort labeled a “shadow operation” and Army official Dan Driscoll, a Vance ally, now leading follow-on discussions in Abu Dhabi.
- European officials have tended to favor Rubio’s transatlantic approach, while Russian commentary has portrayed Vance as more accommodating to Moscow’s position.
- Turning Point USA’s leader Erika Kirk said formal support for Vance in 2028 is “in work,” and Vance has said he remains focused on his vice-presidential duties and the 2026 midterms.