Ukraine and Russia Hold Peace Negotiations
A two-day round of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, mediated by the United States, commenced in Geneva on February 17, 2026. The central and most contentious issue on the agenda is the territorial dispute, which continues to be the primary obstacle to any agreement. The Ukrainian delegation, led by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov and Head of the Presidential Office Kyrylo Budanov, arrived in Geneva following an invitation to negotiate.
Moscow has presented demands for the formal cession of territories, specifically insisting on the transfer of the remaining 20% of the Donetsk region not currently under Russian military control. Kyiv has categorically rejected any territorial concessions in response. The talks began under a cloud of tension following Russian strikes on southern Ukraine just prior to the meeting.
Delegation Composition and Expectations
The Russian delegation is headed by Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky and also includes GRU Chief Igor Kostyukov and economic affairs representative Kirill Dmitriev. A subsequent trilateral round of negotiations is scheduled for February 18, 2026.
During the talks, representatives from both sides will attempt to find a compromise on an issue that remains one of the most difficult in the bilateral relationship. As former U.S. President Donald Trump noted,
“It’s going to be very easy. I mean, it’s better for Ukraine to come to the negotiating table quickly, for now.”
Participants hope the discussions will lead to positive developments in the peace process. These Geneva talks represent a critical juncture in the protracted conflict, focusing on the core territorial disputes that underlie the wider confrontation. The recent military actions underscore the immense difficulty of reaching a consensus. With U.S. support highlighting significant international interest in regional stability, the negotiations could prove pivotal if both sides demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to find common ground.