The latest round of US-mediated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine concluded in Geneva on Wednesday without a major breakthrough, as the conflict is set to enter its fifth year next week. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Moscow of 'trying to drag out' the process, noting that no agreement was reached on the most contentious issues.
Zelenskyy highlighted the status of Russian-occupied territories in eastern Ukraine and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as key unresolved matters. He described the military channel of discussions as 'constructive', but acknowledged that political differences remain significant.
Russia's chief negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, described the talks as 'difficult but businesslike', and indicated that further rounds are planned. The negotiations have stalled over Russia's demand for Ukraine to cede territory in the east, which Kyiv has rejected, though Zelenskyy has suggested alternative arrangements such as a demilitarised zone.
Security guarantees remain a sticking point, with Zelenskyy insisting on firm commitments from Western allies before any territorial compromise. The Trump administration has pushed for Kyiv to make concessions first, offering guarantees afterwards. European leaders believe Russian President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to compromise unless battlefield or domestic pressures force him to.
Ukraine may take some encouragement from Western intelligence assessments indicating Russia faces growing recruitment difficulties and limited territorial gains. However, analysts caution that as long as Putin remains in power and the economy sustains military spending, the war is likely to continue.
