Russian and Ukrainian Officials Meet in Geneva for US-Brokered Talks After 4 Years of War

Delegations from Moscow and Kyiv are in Switzerland for another round of negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Delegations from Russia and Ukraine have arrived in Geneva for U.S.-brokered peace talks, a week before the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of its neighbor. The discussions are expected to focus on the future of Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory, as well as ceasefire monitoring and implementation. However, expectations for a breakthrough are low, with neither side appearing ready to compromise on key issues.

Why it matters

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has resulted in immense loss of life and destruction, with nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory currently occupied by Russian forces. These talks represent a critical opportunity to work towards a negotiated settlement and potential end to the devastating war.

The details

The talks in Geneva will involve military leaders from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States, who will discuss ceasefire monitoring and implementation. Previous negotiations in Abu Dhabi focused on the possibility of a demilitarized zone and improving communication between the militaries. However, the two sides remain far apart on issues like the status of Russian-occupied regions, and Ukraine's demands for postwar security guarantees.

  • The talks in Geneva are taking place a week before the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
  • The U.S. has set a June deadline for a settlement to the conflict.

The players

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The President of Ukraine, who has stated that his government's delegation is in Geneva for the talks.

Steve Witkoff

The U.S. President's envoy who is participating in the negotiations.

Jared Kushner

The U.S. President's son-in-law who is also involved in the talks.

Gen. Alexus Grynkewich

The commander of U.S. military and NATO forces in Europe, who will attend the meeting in Geneva and meet with Russian and Ukrainian counterparts.

Dan Driscoll

The Secretary of the U.S. Army, who will also attend the meeting in Geneva.

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What they’re saying

“Ukraine better come to the table fast.”

— Donald Trump (Associated Press)

“The more this evil comes from Russia, the harder it will be for everyone to reach any agreements with them. Partners must understand this. First and foremost, this concerns the United States.”

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Associated Press)

“We agreed to all realistic proposals from the United States, starting with the proposal for an unconditional and long-term ceasefire.”

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Associated Press)

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

These talks represent a critical opportunity to work towards a negotiated settlement and potential end to the devastating war between Russia and Ukraine, which has resulted in immense loss of life and destruction. However, the two sides remain far apart on key issues, and expectations for a breakthrough remain low.