Ukraine, Russia Hold Talks on US Plan – Second Day of Negotiations
- Moscow signaled a continued willingness to pursue diplomatic resolution to the war in Ukraine, while concurrently asserting its commitment to achieving military objectives. Former U.S.
- Russia maintains it is "genuinely interested in resolving" the conflict in Ukraine diplomatically, but will continue military operations until its objectives are met.
- According to Ushakov, Russia will "continue to achieve its objectives… on the battlefield" until a diplomatic solution is reached.
Moscow signaled a continued willingness to pursue diplomatic resolution to the war in Ukraine, while concurrently asserting its commitment to achieving military objectives. Former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his belief that ukraine and Russia where nearing a potential agreement, criticizing both leaders if they fail to reach one.
Russia’s Position on Negotiations
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Russia maintains it is “genuinely interested in resolving” the conflict in Ukraine diplomatically, but will continue military operations until its objectives are met. This position, articulated by Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, suggests a willingness to negotiate from a position of strength.
According to Ushakov, Russia will “continue to achieve its objectives… on the battlefield” until a diplomatic solution is reached. This statement, reported by Reuters on January 24, 2026, indicates that Russia views military gains as essential leverage in any potential negotiations. Reuters
Donald Trump’s Assessment of Peace Talks
Donald Trump has consistently advocated for a negotiated settlement to the war in Ukraine, and has previously urged Ukraine to consider concessions. On wednesday, January 24, 2026, Trump repeated his assessment that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin were close to reaching a deal.
Trump characterized a failure to reach an agreement as a sign of poor leadership, stating, “If they don’t, they’re stupid - that goes for both of them.” This comment, reported by the Associated Press, reflects Trump’s longstanding view that a swift resolution to the conflict is possible and desirable.Associated Press
Trump’s Past Pressure on Ukraine
Donald Trump previously pressured Ukraine to agree to terms that Kyiv considered unacceptable. During his presidency, Trump withheld military aid to Ukraine while seeking an examination into the Biden family, a move that sparked an impeachment inquiry.
The House Intelligence Committee’s report on the first impeachment inquiry of Donald Trump detailed the pressure campaign on ukraine. House Intelligence Committee Report. This history informs current scrutiny of his public statements regarding potential negotiations.
Current Status of Negotiations (as of January 24, 2026)
As of January 24, 2026, there are no publicly confirmed, direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. While both sides have expressed openness to diplomacy, meaningful obstacles remain, including disagreements over territorial integrity and security guarantees.
The United Nations continues to facilitate discussions and provide a platform for dialog, but a breakthrough remains elusive. United Nations Ukraine Website.Recent reports from the Institute for the Study of War indicate continued intense fighting in eastern Ukraine, suggesting limited progress toward a ceasefire. Institute for the Study of War