Ukraine's Zelenskyy Seeks US-Brokered Peace, Demands Security Guarantees

Ukrainian leader calls for longer-term assurances as Russia-Ukraine talks resume in Geneva

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed hope for US-mediated peace talks with Russia in Geneva, Switzerland, but cautioned that Ukraine will demand "clear security guarantees" from allies as a prerequisite for any lasting peace agreement. The upcoming negotiations follow two rounds of discussions in Abu Dhabi that were described as constructive but ultimately inconclusive, with key obstacles remaining around Russia's demands and Ukraine's rejection of concessions without reciprocal assurances.

Why it matters

The Ukraine-Russia conflict has highlighted the limitations of direct bilateral negotiations in complex geopolitical disputes, leading to increased involvement of external mediators like the US. Zelenskyy's call for greater European involvement also reflects a broader shift towards multipolarity in international relations, where power is distributed among multiple actors rather than concentrated in a single dominant force. The emphasis on security guarantees reflects a growing recognition that lasting peace requires addressing the root causes of insecurity and providing credible assurances against future aggression.

The details

Zelenskyy revealed that the US has proposed a 15-year security guarantee following the end of the war, but Ukraine is seeking a commitment of 20 years or longer. Russia, meanwhile, opposes the deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine, viewing it as a deterrent to future aggression. Ukraine also insists on a ceasefire monitoring mission and a reciprocal exchange of prisoners of war as essential components of any peace agreement. Currently, Russia holds approximately 7,000 Ukrainian soldiers, while Ukraine holds over 4,000 Russian personnel.

  • The upcoming Geneva talks follow two rounds of discussions mediated by the United States in Abu Dhabi, described as constructive but ultimately inconclusive.
  • The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The players

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The President of Ukraine who has voiced hope for US-brokered peace talks with Russia and is demanding clear security guarantees from allies as a prerequisite for any lasting peace agreement.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who has urged Zelenskyy to seize the 'opportunity' for peace, prompting a 'little bit' of pressure on the Ukrainian leader.

Igor Kostyukov

The former lead negotiator for Russia who has been replaced by Vladimir Medinsky, raising concerns in Ukraine about the approach to the negotiations.

Vladimir Medinsky

The new lead negotiator for Russia, replacing Igor Kostyukov, whose approach to negotiations has been criticized by Ukrainian officials as focusing more on historical lectures than constructive dialogue.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.