Discussions are underway between the United States and Russia regarding a new document that may address Ukraine’s potential accession to NATO. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of the U.S. engaging with Kyiv on this matter, rather than solely with Moscow.
Zelensky stated, “I know that Americans, and possibly some Europeans, are discussing a new document with Russia—between NATO and Russia. When they have such a document, they can discuss everything.” He expressed concerns about the implications of these discussions for Ukraine, noting that while the U.S. could proceed without Ukraine’s input, it is crucial for Kyiv to be involved.
The latest round of tripartite negotiations took place in Geneva on February 17-18, involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia. Prior to these talks, Ukrainian officials announced plans to discuss the functioning of a monitoring mission in the event of a ceasefire, as well as the topic of an “energy truce.”
Zelensky reported that significant progress was made on military issues during the two-day talks, although political discussions proved to be more challenging. He indicated that negotiations with Russia could be nearing a final stage, but expressed concerns that Russia is attempting to prolong the discussions.
Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine and head of the Ukrainian delegation, confirmed that some questions were clarified during the Geneva talks. He also outlined the next steps in the negotiation process.
Kyrilo Budanov, head of the President’s Office in Ukraine, described the conversation as “difficult but important.” Following the Geneva discussions, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Kyiv and Moscow have agreed to a new round of negotiations, a sentiment echoed by Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation.
In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Zelensky revealed that the fourth round of talks is set to take place in Switzerland, expressing a desire for these meetings to occur by the end of February.
U.S. and Russia are in discussions about a new NATO document that may involve Ukraine's membership. President Zelensky insists on Ukraine's inclusion in these talks, emphasizing the importance of direct engagement with the U.S.