The latest round of negotiations on ending the war between Russia and Ukraine has concluded in Geneva without a breakthrough. The meetings, held on February 17–18 with U.S. mediation, lasted two days and included both direct consultations between delegations and discussions in working groups on military and political issues. Despite cautious statements describing the dialogue as “constructive”, key disagreements remain unresolved.

Diplomats acknowledged that the positions of the parties on fundamental political and military issues continue to diverge significantly. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the talks as “difficult” and stated that, in Kyiv’s view, Moscow is stalling the process by avoiding concrete commitments to a ceasefire. The Ukrainian side insists on a full cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Russian troops, and the provision of international security guarantees, while emphasizing that territorial concessions are unacceptable.

The head of the Russian delegation, Vladimir Medinsky, said the discussions were conducted in a “business-like” manner but confirmed that no agreement was reached on key political matters. According to Western media reports, Russia’s position includes demands for Ukraine’s neutral status to be закрепed, limitations on its military potential, and recognition of Moscow’s control over certain eastern territories — conditions that Kyiv considers unacceptable.

The second day of talks concluded earlier than scheduled, which observers interpret as a sign that serious disagreements persist. At the same time, U.S. representatives spoke of “some progress” on technical aspects and an agreement to continue consultations after briefing their respective leaders.

Thus, the Geneva meeting marked another attempt at a diplomatic settlement of the protracted conflict that has continued since February 2022. Despite the absence of concrete agreements, the parties formally confirmed their willingness to pursue further dialogue. However, experts note that without compromise on fundamental issues — including the status of territories, the future security architecture, and the parameters of a political settlement — a swift peace agreement remains unlikely.

#RUSSIA

#UKRAINE

19.02.2026 06:27