U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff announced that the first day of the latest round of peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia produced “significant progress” toward ending the war, following discussions mediated by the United States.
Delegations from both countries are expected to continue negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, through working groups on February 18.
Focus on Practical Solutions
Witkoff stated via social media that both sides agreed to brief their respective leaders and continue working toward a potential agreement.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian chief negotiator Rustem Umerov said discussions centered on practical issues and mechanisms for possible conflict resolution. Russian media sources described the talks as lasting approximately six hours and being highly tense.
Zelensky Raises Concerns Over Russian Attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that Russia’s ongoing military actions must not be overlooked during negotiations. He stated that Ukrainian negotiators must address continued air strikes, particularly in discussions involving the United States, which had previously encouraged both sides to reduce attacks.
The Geneva talks come one week before the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022. The conflict has reportedly killed or injured nearly two million people on both sides.
Key Disputes Remain Unresolved
Despite renewed diplomatic efforts, Russia has shown limited willingness to abandon its territorial demands, including calls for Kyiv to relinquish areas it still controls in the eastern region of Donbas.
Ukraine has continued to pressure Washington and European allies for strong security guarantees to protect against potential future Russian aggression.
Negotiation Teams and Diplomatic Tensions
The Russian delegation includes Vladimir Medinsky, whose historical interpretations have previously been criticized by Ukrainian officials as politically motivated.
Ahead of the talks, Ukrainian intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov appeared to mock Medinsky, stating that Ukrainian negotiators would “discuss historical lessons” and seek appropriate conclusions.
U.S. mediation efforts are being led by Witkoff alongside Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Trump has recently expressed frustration over the prolonged conflict, stating that Ukraine should quickly engage in negotiations, describing the peace process as potentially “very easy.”
Battlefield Pressure Continues
While negotiations advance, Russia appears confident in its strategic position. Russian forces have continued slow territorial advances along the front line and have repeatedly targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving millions of civilians without heating and electricity during harsh winter conditions.
