Russia and Ukraine hold US-brokered peace talksUS-brokered peace talks in Geneva amid ongoing attacks
Russian and Ukrainian officials met in Geneva, Switzerland, on February 17-18, 2026, for the third round of US-brokered peace talks. The closed-door discussions covered security, humanitarian issues, territorial disputes like Donbas and Zaporizhzhia, but ended without breakthroughs on ceasefire or key concessions. Russia launched massive drone and missile strikes on Ukraine overnight before the talks, injuring people and leaving thousands without heat or water in Odesa, highlighting the war's persistence nearly four years after the invasion. These talks test diplomacy amid low expectations and a US June deadline for settlement.
Ukrainian Perspective
Talks proved difficult as Russia drags out a process nearing possible end. Ukraine pushes for prisoner exchanges, civilian releases, and accountability for attacks like the Odesa strikes. Zelenskyy stresses territorial integrity and postwar US security guarantees.
Russian Perspective
Talks were difficult but practical, with more rounds expected soon. Russia insists on Ukraine ceding Donbas and addresses broader issues beyond prior limited agendas. No major developments anticipated quickly.
US Perspective
US mediates with a June deadline for settlement on territories and security. Trump calls the talks significant amid Ukraine's war of attrition. Morning meetings with Iran on nuclear issues preceded the Ukraine-Russia session.
- Geneva hosts many global talks due to its neutral status since 1815.
- Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been Russian-controlled since early 2022.
- Odesa sits on the Black Sea coast, key for Ukraine's grain exports.
Russia-Ukraine War
Russia and Ukraine are locked in an retaliatory long-range drone and missile war that now strikes deep into both countries, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Crimea, and major Ukrainian cities like Kyiv and Dnipro. Ukrainian forces launched one of their largest drone attacks on June 26, striking 12 Russian regions and hitting key energy targets, while Russia continues massive retaliatory bombardments that kill civilians and destroy infrastructure.
26 June, 09:41 AM
Ukraine unleashes massive drone bombardment on 12 Russian regions24 June, 10:31 AM
Ukrainian drones knock out power in Russian-held Sevastopol22 June, 03:20 PM
Ukraine strikes Russian missile electronics plant in Voronezh
