Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine to Resume in Geneva
Geneva is set to host a new round of U.S.-mediated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine on and , as both governments confirmed their participation on Friday. This marks the third instance of negotiations under this trilateral format, following previous talks held in Abu Dhabi.
While neither side has expressed strong optimism about achieving a comprehensive ceasefire agreement, there have been limited areas of progress. Notably, both Russia and Ukraine agreed to a temporary suspension of attacks targeting energy infrastructure in late January, and subsequently carried out the first prisoner exchange in five months after the last round of talks.
The continuation of negotiations, with consistent representation from both sides, suggests a potential, albeit fragile, opening for further dialogue. However, skepticism remains in Kyiv, particularly in light of past experiences. According to reports, a previous pause in strikes on energy infrastructure, as suggested by former U.S. President Trump, lasted only four days before Russia launched a barrage of 450 drones and over 60 missiles against Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking to journalists this week, indicated a lack of constructive response from Russia. “We have not received any response from the Russians,” Zelenskyy said. “If anything, one could say the opposite — we received responses in the form of drones and missile attacks.”
These upcoming talks occur just before the anticipated fifth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The choice of Geneva as the location marks the first time these U.S.-mediated discussions will be held on European soil.
The negotiations are taking place against a backdrop of broader geopolitical tensions. Separate discussions between the U.S. And Iran, mediated by Oman, have also been underway, focusing exclusively on nuclear issues. Those talks were described as a “good beginning” by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, with both sides returning to their capitals for further consultations.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump recently hosted President Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago residence, where they discussed a 20-point peace plan. Trump claimed that both sides are nearing an agreement, stating, “I think we can move pretty rapidly. Otherwise it’s going to go on for a very long time.” Zelenskyy reportedly indicated that approximately 90% of the draft plan had been agreed upon, though “thorny issues” remain, particularly concerning the future of the Donbas region.
Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, has also suggested significant progress in the Ukraine talks, hinting at a near-term peace deal. The U.S. Has reportedly floated the idea of establishing a “free economic zone” in parts of Donbas as a potential compromise, allowing Ukraine to withdraw from certain areas as part of a negotiated settlement.
The situation remains fluid, and the success of these latest talks is far from guaranteed. The history of broken agreements and continued hostilities casts a long shadow over the prospects for a lasting peace. However, the fact that both sides continue to engage in dialogue, facilitated by the United States, offers a glimmer of hope in a conflict that has already caused immense suffering and instability.
