Russia-Ukraine peace talks begin in Geneva as attacks continue
Russian and Ukrainian delegations have commenced US-mediated peace talks in Geneva. However, negotiations are overshadowed by ongoing Russian airstrikes and disputes over territorial demands.
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By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — Russian and Ukrainian delegations have initiated critical peace talks in Geneva, Switzerland, mediated by the United States, just a week before the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion. Despite the diplomatic efforts, the negotiations are taking place against a backdrop of intensifying violence on the ground.
According to reports, the first day of talks was tense, with Ukraine's chief negotiator Rustem Umerov announcing that discussions would continue on Wednesday morning, February 18. The talks are being facilitated by US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner. However, hopes for a major breakthrough remain slim as the Kremlin refuses to back down on its territorial demands.
Negotiations under fire
Just hours before the delegations met in Geneva, Russia launched a massive aerial assault targeting 12 regions across Ukraine. The attack involved approximately 400 drones and 30 missiles, killing at least three people and causing severe damage to the country's energy infrastructure.
Ukraine's Ministry of Energy reported that the strikes further crippled an already battered power grid, exacerbating the challenges of freezing winter temperatures. In response, Ukraine launched drone strikes of its own, reportedly hitting a Russian oil refinery, while the Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted over 150 drones.
Zelensky: "We do not need war"
Coinciding with the talks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated, "We do not need war; we are defending our state and our independence." Zelensky expressed readiness to refrain from airstrikes as proposed by the US, adding, "We are ready to reach an agreement that will quickly end the war. The question is: What do the Russians want?"
The Russian state news agency RIA reported that the six-hour negotiation session was "tense," reflecting the deep divide between the warring parties.
Trump's impatience and the land dispute
President Trump has expressed impatience with the lack of progress, urging Ukraine to "get to the negotiating table quickly." However, the core obstacle remains the issue of territory. Russia currently occupies about 20% of Ukraine, including large swathes of the eastern Donbas region, and demands the cession of the remaining parts of the region.
Kyiv categorically rejects these demands and insists on strong security guarantees from the West, including the United States, before agreeing to any settlement. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybhiha condemned the latest Russian airstrikes, calling them proof of "Russia's total disregard for peace efforts."
