GENEVA (AP) – Envoys from Moscow and Kyiv engaged in negotiations in Geneva on Wednesday, marking the second consecutive day of U.S.-brokered talks aimed at addressing the political and military discrepancies that arose from Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago. The discussions are part of a broader effort to seek resolution amidst ongoing hostilities.
Rustem Umerov, the head of the Ukrainian delegation, provided updates via social media, stating, "Consultations are taking place in working groups by areas within the political and military tracks. We are working on clarifying the parameters and mechanisms of the decisions discussed yesterday." This feedback underscores an attempt to find common ground despite significant challenges ahead.
This round of negotiations represents the third series of direct talks organized by the U.S., following previous meetings held in Abu Dhabi earlier in the year. Although those discussions were characterized as constructive, they ultimately did not result in any significant breakthroughs regarding the conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, praised the peace efforts, asserting that Washington’s initiatives over the past year have "brought about meaningful progress," despite ongoing violence in the region.
On the battlefield, the Ukrainian and Russian forces remain entrenched along a front line that spans approximately 1,250 kilometers (750 miles). Reports indicate that Russia continues to launch attacks on civilian areas, with the Ukrainian air force confirming an overnight assault involving one ballistic missile and 126 long-range drones targeted at Ukraine. Additionally, a drone strike in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to seven individuals, including two young children, as reported by regional military administration chief Ivan Fedorov.
The negotiators from Moscow and Kyiv appear to be significantly far apart regarding their respective demands for a peace settlement. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed a ceasefire and expressed willingness for a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Russia insists on a comprehensive agreement before any truce can be negotiated. Putin’s initial objectives remain unchanged since the onset of the invasion on February 24, 2022. This includes Ukraine’s commitment to renounce any aspirations to join NATO, significantly reduce its military forces, and ensure the protection of Russian language and culture, thereby retaining Ukraine within Moscow's sphere of influence.
Moreover, Putin has requested that Kyiv withdraw its military presence from four regions that Russia has occupied but does not exert complete control over. In response, Zelenskyy has maintained that Ukraine will not concede any territory to Russia, standing firm on sovereignty as a critical point of contention in the negotiations.
The ongoing dialogue represents a crucial moment for both nations as they navigate through a complex landscape of military engagements and diplomatic efforts. As they proceed with the talks, the situation on the ground continues to evolve, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable and peaceful resolution.
