Geneva peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States concluded Wednesday after only two hours of discussion, following two days of negotiations. While described as “difficult, but substantial” by Russian negotiator Vladímir Medinski, sources from the Ukrainian delegation confirmed the talks, mediated by the United States, had ended.
Stalled Progress and Key Disputes
The three-way talks, a resumption of conversations initiated Tuesday, aimed to secure a ceasefire and ultimately a peace agreement for Ukraine. Negotiations focused on both military and political issues, differing from previous rounds held in Abu Dhabi which centered on technical matters. A key sticking point remains the issue of territorial concessions, with the conversations on Tuesday described as “tense” by a Russian source and “really difficult” by Ukrainian President Volodímir Zelenski.
Zelenski, in a message posted on X, accused Russia of attempting to “prolong negotiations that could have already reached the final phase” and advocated for the inclusion of European powers allied with Kyiv in the discussions. Topics discussed included measures for the exchange of prisoners of war and the release of civilians.
Pressure and Dependencies
As the four-year mark of Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine approaches next Tuesday, the conflict has settled into a war of attrition. Ukrainian forces are reportedly conducting a counteroffensive in the Zaporiyia region, reclaiming approximately 200 square kilometers of territory. The possibility of a peace agreement this spring, as desired by the United States, is increasingly uncertain.
U.S. President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to “sit down at the table quickly,” a sentiment Zelenski deemed “unfair” given that Russia is the aggressor. Ukraine is dependent on the U.S. For weaponry and for security guarantees that would only be credible if signed by Washington. Divisions are emerging within Zelenski’s circle, with some fearing the opportunity for a U.S.-mediated agreement may be slipping away.
Key Obstacles to Agreement
A major impasse centers on the 22% of Donetsk region in the Donbas area that Russia demands Ukraine cede. Moscow already controls the remainder of Donetsk, as well as portions of Zaporiyia and Jersón, and the Crimean Peninsula, annexed in 2014. Ukraine rejects ceding territory without a fight, citing strategic, social, and political reasons, and the presence of 200,000 Ukrainian citizens in the region. Ukraine is willing to hold a referendum on the issue, alongside presidential elections that Moscow has requested and the U.S. Hopes will be held before summer, but insists on a two-month ceasefire to ensure safe conditions.
Control of the Zaporiyia nuclear power plant, the largest in Europe, currently occupied by Russia, also presents a challenge. The Zaporiyia plant’s management is a point of contention, with negotiators exploring potential intermediate solutions, such as U.S. Administration and shared electricity distribution. Establishing security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression is another key issue, potentially involving allied troops deployed in Ukraine with U.S. Backing, though Russia has warned that foreign soldiers would grow military targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the Geneva talks?
The Geneva talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States concluded after two hours on Wednesday, following two days of negotiations. Both sides confirmed the talks had ended.
What is the main point of contention in the negotiations?
The main point of contention is the 22% of the territory of Donetsk, in the Donbas region, that Russia is demanding Ukraine cede.
What role is the United States playing in the negotiations?
The United States is mediating the talks and is seen as crucial for providing both military support to Ukraine and potential security guarantees in any peace agreement.
Given the complexities and deep-seated disagreements, what conditions would be necessary for these negotiations to move beyond impasse and toward a lasting resolution?
