In Geneva, two-day, trilateral negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have begun, actively mediated by the United States. The meeting takes place amid intense air attacks on infrastructure in both countries. The main topics of discussion are security guarantees and key humanitarian issues. Key roles in the US delegation are played by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of President Donald Trump.

Inauguration of Negotiations in Geneva

Representatives of Russia and Ukraine have begun two-day talks under the auspices of the USA, focusing on security and humanitarian issues.

Mediation by the US Administration

Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner play a key role in the process, signaling Washington's new approach to ending the conflict.

Kremlin Skepticism

Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that no breakthrough news should be expected on the first day of the talks taking place in Switzerland.

A crucial round of talks aimed at ending the armed conflict that has been ongoing since February 2022 has begun in Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting involves high-ranking representatives of Russia and Ukraine, whose negotiation process is supported by special envoys from the White House. The Ukrainian delegate, Rustem Umjerow, confirmed via Telegram that the meeting's agenda focuses on humanitarian aspects and security guarantees. However, the Russian side, represented by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, has tempered expectations, indicating that Tuesday's meetings are preliminary and no immediate breakthroughs should be expected. The talks are being held behind closed doors at a Geneva hotel, while the situation on the front remains tense. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned of possible mass attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities, casting a shadow over diplomatic efforts. US mediators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are trying to bring the positions closer, although the Kremlin has announced that the controversial issue of territorial claims will also be raised during the talks. Switzerland traditionally plays the role of a neutral country, hosting the most important diplomatic summits, including historic meetings between US and Soviet leaders during the Cold War. Geneva has long been a center of world diplomacy due to the presence of numerous international organizations. The prospect of ending the war is generating keen interest in Central Europe. Polish President Karol Nawrocki, commenting on the security situation in the region, even advocated for considering Poland's participation in the Nuclear Sharing program. Meanwhile, the Geneva negotiations are set to continue on Wednesday, and their outcome will depend on the parties' willingness to make concessions on fundamental issues of sovereignty and borders. "The agenda items have been agreed upon, the team is ready to work," said Rustem Umjerow. Since 2014, following Russia's annexation of Crimea and the outbreak of fighting in Donbas, the international community has repeatedly attempted mediation, including within the so-called Minsk formats. The planned talks in Switzerland are scheduled to last for 2 days.

Mentioned People

  • Rustem Umjerow — Ukrainian Minister of Defense and head of the negotiation delegation in Geneva.
  • Dmitrij Pieskow — Kremlin press secretary commenting on the progress of the peace talks.
  • Steve Witkoff — US special envoy participating in the mediation.
  • Karol Nawrocki — President of Poland speaking about the threat from Russia and the nuclear program.