Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on February 14 that the forthcoming negotiations in Geneva will be divided into political and military sectors. The talks are set to take place on February 17-18, involving representatives from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States.
Zelensky confirmed that the Ukrainian delegation will be led by Rustem Umerov, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council. He expressed surprise at Russia’s decision to change its delegation leader, suggesting that this move may indicate a desire to delay resolutions. “Perhaps I am being a bit pessimistic,” he remarked during a media briefing.
The President voiced his hope that the United States would prevent the Russian side from postponing discussions or restarting negotiations from scratch due to the new delegation. He stated, “I think it would be a significant mistake, and I hope our American partners will not allow the Russians to play games with them.”
Previously, the Office of the President of Ukraine announced the dates and location for the next round of talks, which were also confirmed by the Kremlin. The Russian delegation will be led by Vladimir Medinsky, an aide to the Russian president, who had previously headed the Russian representatives in earlier negotiations. During those discussions, the Russian delegation effectively rejected a ceasefire and insisted on recognizing the territories occupied by Russia in Ukraine while seeking to limit the size of the Ukrainian armed forces.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has criticized Medinsky for a lack of constructive engagement in past negotiations.
President Zelensky outlined the structure and expectations for the upcoming negotiations in Geneva, emphasizing the importance of U.S. involvement to prevent delays by the Russian delegation. The talks will focus on both political and military issues amid ongoing tensions over territorial disputes.