Umerov rejects Trump's plan that calls for concessions to Russia

Ukraine's top security official Rustem Umerov rejects claims that he agreed to a controversial 28-point peace plan backed by US President Donald Trump's administration.

The plan envisages territorial concessions by Ukraine, a reduction of its armed forces and the exclusion of the possibility of joining NATO, which would meet many of Russia's demands. Umerov says he only participated in technical talks without a mandate to approve the proposal.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated a willingness to hold "constructive and honest" discussions, without specifying positions. Moscow has not yet formally informed Kiev of its readiness to negotiate.

The plan includes a gradual lifting of sanctions against Russia and a return to the G8.

The Kremlin, meanwhile, reports territorial gains that Kiev disputes.

(reuters, swag)