Geneva – After two days of US-brokered talks, Ukraine and Russia concluded negotiations in Geneva on , reporting limited but potentially significant progress on military issues while acknowledging substantial obstacles remain in resolving the political dimensions of the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy characterized the discussions as constructive on the military track, stating that both sides demonstrated a willingness to find common ground on ceasefire monitoring and the potential cessation of hostilities, contingent upon political will.
The talks, which lasted just under two hours on their final day, were structured around two primary tracks: military and political. According to Zelenskyy, the military representatives from both sides “basically agreed on pretty much everything” regarding the practicalities of a potential ceasefire, including monitoring mechanisms. He indicated that the United States would likely play a key role in any future monitoring operation, describing this as a “constructive signal.” Further details, however, will be provided by Ukraine’s General Staff upon their return, according to Zelenskyy.
The political track, encompassing issues such as the status of territories currently occupied by Russia, the situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), and other sensitive matters, proved far more challenging. Zelenskyy admitted that “positions differ” on these issues, and described the discussions as “not easy.” While dialogue continued, he stopped short of claiming any breakthroughs comparable to those achieved on the military side. “On the military track I heard progress; on the political track there was dialogue – they agreed to move forward and to continue,” he stated.
Rustem Umerov, the head of the Ukrainian delegation, echoed Zelenskyy’s cautious optimism, telling reporters that “progress” had been made but declining to disclose specifics. Vladimir Medinsky, Russia’s chief negotiator, described the talks as “difficult but businesslike,” offering a similarly restrained assessment. The abrupt conclusion of the talks on morning, after only two hours of deliberation, underscored the complexities involved and the distance remaining between the two sides.
The US-brokered nature of the talks highlights Washington’s continued efforts to mediate a resolution to the conflict, which began nearly four years ago. The choice of Geneva as a venue reflects its long-standing tradition as a neutral ground for international negotiations. However, the limited timeframe and the abrupt ending suggest that significant hurdles remain before a comprehensive peace agreement can be reached.
European officials have expressed a degree of comfort following discussions on US peace proposals, but have also cautioned against expecting a swift resolution. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed what he described as an “interim result,” noting that the US proposal had been “modified in significant parts.” He stressed, however, that “there won’t be peace in Ukraine overnight.” The initial US plan, which reportedly included proposals for Ukraine to cede territory and reduce the size of its armed forces, had raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe.
The situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remains a particularly sensitive issue. The ZNPP, which is currently under Russian control, has been the subject of repeated international concern due to the risk of a nuclear accident. Securing the plant and establishing a safe and sustainable operating regime is likely to be a key demand for Ukraine in any future negotiations.
The focus on military issues and the reported agreement on ceasefire monitoring mechanisms suggest a potential pathway towards de-escalation on the ground. However, the unresolved political questions – particularly those relating to territorial integrity and sovereignty – represent formidable obstacles to a lasting peace. The willingness of both sides to continue dialogue, as emphasized by Zelenskyy, is a positive sign, but the path forward remains uncertain.
The abrupt halt to political negotiations raises questions about the conditions surrounding the US-brokered talks. Reports suggest a rift exists within the Ukrainian camp regarding the best approach to negotiations, and that Russia has maintained maximalist positions. The speed with which the US sought to initiate and conduct the talks has also been cited as a potential complicating factor.
The international community will be closely watching for further developments. The outcome of these negotiations has implications far beyond Ukraine and Russia, impacting regional stability, European security, and the broader international order. The involvement of the United States, and the potential for a US-led monitoring mechanism, underscores the global significance of the conflict and the ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution.
As the Ukrainian delegation returns home to report on the talks, the government in Kyiv will face a critical decision regarding next steps. The balance between pursuing dialogue and maintaining a firm stance on core principles will be crucial in navigating the complex challenges that lie ahead. The international community awaits further clarity on the path forward, and the prospects for a lasting peace in Ukraine.
