Ukrainian and Russian Delegates Engage in Ongoing US-Facilitated Negotiations in Geneva

In Geneva, envoys from Kyiv and Moscow convened for a second day of U.S.-facilitated negotiations, aiming to reconcile deep-seated political and military rifts that have persisted since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago.

“Consultations are taking place in working groups by areas within the political and military tracks,” stated Rustem Umerov, head of the Ukrainian delegation, in a post on X. “We are working on clarifying the parameters and mechanisms of the decisions discussed yesterday.”

This round of discussions marks the third series of direct talks orchestrated by the U.S., following earlier meetings in Abu Dhabi that were deemed constructive yet failed to produce significant breakthroughs.

Steve Witkoff, an envoy representing the U.S. administration, remarked on social media that Washington's efforts toward peace in Ukraine over the past year have “brought about meaningful progress.” However, he did not provide further details, as hostilities persist.

On the ground, the two nations remain entrenched in conflict along a front line stretching approximately 1,250 kilometers (750 miles), with Russia continuing its bombardment of civilian areas. The Ukrainian air force reported that overnight, Russia launched one ballistic missile and 126 long-range drones targeting Ukraine.

A drone strike attributed to Russia in Zaporizhzhia resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to seven others, including two young children, according to Ivan Fedorov, chief of the regional military administration.

Despite ongoing discussions, significant gaps remain between Russia and Ukraine regarding their respective demands for a peace settlement.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed a ceasefire along with a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Conversely, Moscow insists on a comprehensive agreement before it will consider a truce.

Putin's primary objectives have not shifted since the onset of the invasion on February 24, 2022: Ukraine must abandon its aspirations to join NATO, significantly downsize its military, and safeguard Russian language and culture to maintain its alignment with Moscow.

Moreover, Putin demands that Kyiv withdraw its forces from four regions currently occupied by Russia but not fully controlled.

Zelenskyy has firmly stated that Ukraine will not concede any territory to Russia.

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Novikov reported from Kyiv, Ukraine.

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For ongoing coverage of the conflict in Ukraine, visit https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine