Ukraine talks in Paris show uncertain progress as U.S. focuses on Venezuela.

Allies met in Paris to discuss security arrangements for Ukraine after a possible ceasefire, but progress was uncertain as U.S. attention shifted to operations in Venezuela; 35 officials including 27 heads of state attended and the U.S. was represented by envoys.

Allies of Ukraine met in Paris on Tuesday to discuss how to secure the country if a ceasefire with Russia were to take effect. French President Emmanuel Macron had said the gathering would produce concrete commitments to protect Ukraine and pursue a lasting peace. The meeting drew an unusually large in-person turnout, but officials said progress was uncertain as U.S. attention shifted to events in Venezuela. The United States was represented by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner rather than a Cabinet-level official. Key details: - The Paris meeting included 35 participants, among them 27 heads of state and government, and aimed to shape post-ceasefire security arrangements. - The United States sent envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner after plans for Secretary of State Marco Rubio to lead changed because of U.S. military action in Venezuela. - Participants were seeking concrete outcomes on five priorities: monitoring a ceasefire; support for Ukraine’s armed forces; deployment of a multinational force by land, sea and air; contingency commitments against renewed Russian aggression; and long-term defense cooperation with Ukraine. - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for firm guarantees from Washington and noted that many countries face parliamentary or political hurdles before committing troops or other forms of support. Summary: The talks were intended to shape security guarantees and mechanisms that would apply if fighting ends, but officials reported uncertain progress amid competing priorities. Undetermined at this time.