Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov has announced that the next round of talks involving Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine is set to take place on February 17-18 in Geneva.
Peskov indicated that the Russian delegation will be led by Vladimir Medinsky, who has a background as Russia’s former Minister of Culture.
Dmytro Lytvyn, an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, confirmed that the Ukrainian team is preparing for these upcoming discussions.
Medinsky’s role has reportedly extended beyond diplomacy, as sources within Estonian security circles suggest he aids Vladimir Putin in formulating ideologies regarding Ukraine’s sovereignty. Additionally, Medinsky has been involved in ideological efforts in occupied territories and in rewriting historical narratives for educational purposes.
Previously, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte criticized Russia’s approach to peace negotiations, noting that Medinsky often veers into historical lectures rather than focusing on productive dialogue.
The upcoming negotiations follow two rounds that occurred in Abu Dhabi in late January and early February 2026, where discussions centered around ceasefire implementation and monitoring measures, according to Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council.
Reuters has reported that Ukraine and the U.S. are considering a potential peace agreement with Russia by March, although the timeline may shift due to unresolved territorial issues. Zelensky mentioned that the U.S. is advocating for an end to the conflict by early summer, with expectations for increased diplomatic pressure regarding this timeline.
Furthermore, Zelensky expressed Ukraine’s openness to negotiations at any venue that could yield tangible outcomes.
The tripartite talks between Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine are set for February 17-18 in Geneva, led by Vladimir Medinsky. Preparations are underway on the Ukrainian side as discussions build on prior meetings aimed at establishing peace.