Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that the next round of peace negotiations will take place in Switzerland. He expressed satisfaction with the choice of location, emphasizing the significance of holding discussions in Europe amid ongoing conflict.
During a recent conversation, Zelensky remarked, “I always speak about this with respect to the Middle East and other countries, but I believe that if there is a war in Europe, the venue should also be here. Europeans need to feel that this aggression is against us and against Europe.” This statement underscores the geopolitical implications of the conflict.
Zelensky further indicated that the fourth round of negotiations is also scheduled for Switzerland, although more detailed information will be available following the return of the Ukrainian delegation. He stated, “You mentioned the next meeting. I want to emphasize that the next meeting will also be in Switzerland. This is the information I have today. Of course, our group will return, and I will have more detailed information than I currently have on my phone.”
The context of these negotiations is crucial. The third round of trilateral talks involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia took place in Geneva on February 17-18. Following this meeting, officials from Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that an agreement had been reached for the next round of discussions. Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky confirmed that the meeting would occur “soon.”
President Zelensky has expressed a desire for renewed talks with Russia by the end of February. He noted that while negotiations could potentially reach a conclusive stage, Moscow appears to be prolonging the process. In an interview with Piers Morgan, Zelensky mentioned that there has been progress on military matters as a result of the Geneva discussions, but political issues, particularly concerning Donbas, remain contentious, with differing positions from both sides.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that upcoming peace negotiations will take place in Switzerland, emphasizing the importance of European involvement in addressing the conflict. The discussions follow previous trilateral talks held in Geneva, where progress was noted on military issues, though political disagreements persist.