Berlin: Peace talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine continued for a second day in Berlin as European leaders and the United States entered what many described as a pivotal week for the continent’s security and future stability.
The discussions brought together senior officials from Ukraine the United States and key European countries. The talks focused on exploring a possible framework for ending the conflict that began with Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago. Diplomats involved in the negotiations said there had been movement on several technical and political points but acknowledged that major differences still remain.
According to officials familiar with the talks the United States has signalled readiness to support strong long term security guarantees for Ukraine. These guarantees are meant to prevent future attacks and could involve a deeper role for European countries in maintaining peace after any agreement is reached. European leaders have broadly backed this approach and stressed that Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence must be respected.
However the most difficult issue remains unresolved. There is still no agreement on territorial questions particularly regarding areas of eastern and southern Ukraine that are currently under Russian control. Ukrainian representatives have made it clear that any demand for major territorial concessions would be extremely painful and politically sensitive. European diplomats also said there was little sign so far that Russia is prepared to compromise on these demands.
Officials described the talks as serious and constructive but warned against expecting a quick breakthrough. While negotiators say a large part of the proposed framework is close to agreement the remaining gaps are among the most complex and emotionally charged aspects of the war.
European leaders meeting alongside the talks issued a strong message of unity. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine both militarily and economically and said any peace must be just lasting and acceptable to the Ukrainian people. Several leaders also discussed the idea of a European led security arrangement that could help safeguard Ukraine if a ceasefire or peace deal is reached.
Public opinion inside Ukraine continues to weigh heavily on the talks. Surveys indicate that while many Ukrainians long for an end to the fighting there is strong resistance to giving up territory permanently. Analysts say this makes it difficult for Ukrainian leaders to accept any deal that could be seen as rewarding aggression.
Russia has so far not publicly endorsed the proposals discussed in Berlin. Moscow has continued to insist on its territorial claims and has shown limited flexibility in recent statements. Western officials say this remains one of the biggest obstacles to progress.
Diplomats expect further negotiations in the coming days including follow up meetings linked to an upcoming European Union summit. That summit is also expected to discuss long term financial support for Ukraine and the possible use of frozen Russian assets.
For now the talks continue amid cautious optimism and deep uncertainty. While leaders say a negotiated end to the war is closer than at any point in recent months they also stress that much hard diplomacy lies ahead before peace can become a reality.