Ukraine-Russia-US Talks Kick Off in Geneva

(MENAFN) A third round of trilateral peace negotiations between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States opened in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday, as the three powers attempt to forge a viable ceasefire framework — exactly one week before the fourth anniversary of a war that continues to claim lives on an active front line.

The resumption of talks marks a notable shift in Moscow's diplomatic posture. The Russian delegation is being led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, departing from the senior military figures who helmed previous rounds held in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov signaled that the scope of discussions has broadened, saying the Geneva talks would cover a "wider range of issues," including what he described as the "main issues concerning the territories."

Ukraine's delegation is headed by Rustem Umerov, secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, accompanied by senior political and security officials. Kyiv confirmed the team is operating within a framework established by the country's leadership, with the stated objective of securing a substantive and lasting peace.

Chief among Ukrainian priorities at the table are an energy ceasefire and the establishment of a concrete monitoring mechanism that would govern any truce agreement reached between the parties.

Yet the diplomatic backdrop remains deeply fraught. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking ahead of Tuesday's session, issued a stark warning that Moscow may be preparing another "massive strike," contending that Russia's military pressure has shown no signs of abating despite the return to the negotiating table.

The talks are expected to proceed largely behind closed doors, with no immediate statement to the media anticipated following the session.

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