The Ukrainian delegation has embarked on a journey to Geneva for a new round of negotiations aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict with Russia. Kirilo Budanov, head of the President’s Office, announced the trip via social media, emphasizing the need to protect Ukraine’s interests during discussions.
In his post, Budanov stated, “On the way to Geneva. Ahead is the next round of negotiations. Along the way, my colleagues and I will discuss lessons from our history and seek the right conclusions.” This statement underscores the seriousness with which Ukraine approaches these talks.
The upcoming negotiations follow a series of discussions held earlier this month. On February 12, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Ukraine’s readiness for further dialogue with Russian representatives to work towards resolving the war. This commitment was reiterated after trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi on February 4-5, where delegations from the United States, Ukraine, and Russia focused on ceasefire implementation and monitoring mechanisms.
As a result of the Abu Dhabi discussions, the U.S. and Russia agreed to restore high-level military dialogue, indicating a willingness to engage in more structured conversations about the conflict. Dmitry Litvin, an advisor to the Ukrainian president, confirmed that the next round of talks would take place in Geneva on February 17-18.
Preparation for this meeting has been underway, as noted by Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. The delegation will include key figures such as Umerov, Budanov, Andriy Hnatov, Davyd Arakhamia, Serhiy Kyslytsya, and Vadym Skibitsky.
The outcome of these negotiations is critical, as both sides seek to establish a framework for peace amid a prolonged conflict that has resulted in significant humanitarian and geopolitical ramifications.
The Ukrainian delegation is set to engage in peace talks in Geneva, following previous discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. Key officials will participate in negotiations that seek to establish a framework for a ceasefire and military dialogue.