The latest round of US-mediated peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine concluded in Geneva on Wednesday without a major breakthrough, as the war approaches its fifth year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Moscow of 'trying to drag out' the process, stating that no agreement was reached on the most contentious issues.
Zelenskyy identified the status of Russian-occupied territories in eastern Ukraine and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as key sticking points. He noted that discussions covered military and political tracks, with the military channel described as 'constructive' regarding ceasefire implementation.
Russian chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky described the talks as 'difficult but businesslike' and indicated further rounds are planned. The negotiations stalled over Moscow's demand for Ukraine to cede eastern territories as a precondition for halting hostilities, a condition Kyiv has rejected.
Security guarantees remain a divisive issue, with Zelenskyy insisting on firm commitments from Western allies before any territorial concessions. The Trump administration has pushed Kyiv to agree to territorial compromises first, offering security guarantees afterwards.
European leaders doubt meaningful compromises from Vladimir Putin unless battlefield or domestic conditions worsen. Western intelligence suggests Russia faces recruitment difficulties, limited territorial gains, and economic slowdown, though analysts say pressure is insufficient to alter Kremlin behaviour.
