Trilateral Ukraine Peace Talks in Geneva Conclude without Breakthrough
High-level peace talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, recently concluded in Geneva. Despite the urgency imparted by the impending four-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the negotiations ended with no discernible progress after two days of intensive discussions.
A Tense Atmosphere and High Stakes
The Geneva peace talks, held at the InterContinental Hotel, were conducted behind closed doors and were described as 'businesslike' but 'tough-going' by sources such as TASS and Deutsche Welle. The Russian delegation, headed by Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky, met with Ukrainian and US delegations in what RT (Russia Today) termed a 'crucial round' of peace talks. The negotiations, taking place amid ongoing territorial disputes over Ukraine's refusal to abandon its claim to Donbass, focused on security and military issues.
A Swift Conclusion and No Clear Breakthrough
The talks, which were mediated by the US and lasted for two days, concluded after just two hours on the second day. This was a significant reduction in the time spent compared to the six hours of meetings on the first day. The South China Morning Post reported that neither side signaled they were any closer to ending Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. The Ukrainian side described the talks as 'difficult', while the Russian chief delegate, Vladimir Medinsky, announced that further talks would take place soon.
International Pressure and Diverging Narratives
As the talks unfolded, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky complained about the pressure his country was facing, particularly from US President Donald Trump, to make concessions. Trump had urged Ukraine to 'come to the table fast', warning that the country should swiftly give up its uncompromising stance in the negotiations, according to RT (Russia Today).
On the other hand, the Kyiv Independent reported pointed criticism from Russian officials who suggested that only Ukraine's capitulation would satisfy Moscow's objectives. This narrative of contrasting demands and expectations adds to the complexity of the negotiation process.
What Comes Next?
Despite the lack of a significant breakthrough, the negotiations are set to continue, with another round of talks anticipated soon. However, according to Ukrinform, while Ukraine is ready for the next round of negotiations, the Russian side has not yet confirmed its participation. President Zelensky has suggested that these talks may take place on February 17 or 18, but the location is still undecided.
The Geneva talks underscore the ongoing difficulties in resolving the conflict in Ukraine, with territorial disputes and differing geopolitical interests complicating the negotiation process. As the war's fourth anniversary approaches, the stakes continue to rise, and the need for a sustainable resolution becomes increasingly urgent.