During his annual address on February 17, US President Donald Trump emphasized the United States’ commitment to ending the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, stating that approximately 25,000 soldiers are dying each month due to the hostilities.
Trump’s remarks came as he discussed the broader implications of the war, asserting, “We are working very hard to end the ninth war — the killings and slaughter between Ukraine and Russia.” He claimed that such a conflict would not have occurred had he been in office, and he reiterated his dedication to peace while also emphasizing the need to respond to threats against the US.
“Recently, American forces destroyed Iran’s nuclear program during Operation ‘Midnight Hammer,'” Trump added.
On the same day, the first round of trilateral negotiations took place in Geneva involving Ukraine, the US, and Russia, aimed at resolving the conflict. Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council Secretary, reported that discussions focused on practical matters and potential solutions.
Umerov also held separate meetings with representatives from the US, France, the UK, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland to review the outcomes of the first day of talks and align strategies for future steps.
Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, noted significant progress following the first day of discussions, stating that both sides agreed to update their leaders and continue working towards a peace agreement.
The second day of talks on February 18 was described by Umerov as “intensive and substantive,” with both political and military tracks being addressed. He mentioned that security parameters and implementation mechanisms for potential agreements were discussed, and some issues were clarified while others remained pending further coordination.
Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky characterized the negotiations as “challenging but businesslike.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remarked on the constructive nature of the talks, particularly regarding ceasefire monitoring, with the US expected to play a role in this process.
On February 18, Kirill Budanov, head of the President’s Office and a member of the Ukrainian delegation, indicated that a new meeting would take place soon. He later announced on February 23 that another round of peace talks involving Ukraine and Russia, with US participation, is anticipated to occur around February 27.
US President Donald Trump highlighted the urgent need to end the Ukraine-Russia conflict during his recent address, coinciding with trilateral negotiations in Geneva. The talks, involving key international players, focused on practical solutions and monitoring ceasefire agreements.