Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Progress Amidst Continued Conflict

Geneva is hosting a third round of U.S.-mediated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, beginning Tuesday, February 17th and continuing through Wednesday, February 18th. These negotiations, occurring just before the fifth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, come as both sides grapple with ongoing military strikes and a complex geopolitical landscape.

Limited Progress and Renewed Hostilities

While the continuation of negotiations with consistent representation from both sides suggests a potential for progress, optimism remains low. Previous rounds of talks, held in Abu Dhabi, resulted in a temporary pause in attacks on energy infrastructure, which lasted only four days. Russia subsequently launched a barrage of 450 drones and over 60 missiles against Ukraine [CBS News]. A prisoner exchange, the first in five months, was also carried out following the last round of talks.

Trump’s Role and Pressure on Kyiv

U.S. President Donald Trump is actively pushing for a resolution to the conflict, though Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed concerns about Washington exerting significant pressure on Kyiv to make concessions [Al Jazeera]. Trump stated that Ukraine and Russia are “closer than ever” to a peace deal after meeting with Zelenskyy in Florida in December 2025 [AP News]. He also expressed his belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin still desires peace [AP News]. Trump urged Ukraine to come to the negotiating table quickly [Al Jazeera].

Territorial Disputes Remain a Key Obstacle

The Kremlin has indicated that the Geneva talks will likely focus on the issue of Ukrainian territory, specifically Russia’s demand for Kyiv to cede control of the remaining 20 percent of the Donetsk region that remains uncaptured [Al Jazeera]. Ukraine has consistently refused this demand.

Continued Conflict and Civilian Impact

Despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts, attacks and civilian deaths in Ukraine have increased during President Trump’s first year back in office [New York Times]. Zelenskyy has stated that Russia has not provided any positive response to peace overtures, instead responding with drone and missile attacks [CBS News].

The talks are being held as the war approaches its fifth year, with no immediate end in sight.