Geneva: New peace talks between Russia and Ukraine began in Geneva on Tuesday, with control of land emerging as the most difficult issue in efforts to end the war that began in 2022.
Delegations from both countries are meeting under United States mediation as the conflict approaches its fourth anniversary. The negotiations are expected to continue over two days and are seen as a renewed attempt to reach a political settlement after years of fighting, heavy casualties and widespread destruction.
Territorial control remains the central obstacle. Russia is seeking recognition of its claims over occupied areas and full control of the remaining Ukrainian held parts of the eastern Donetsk region. Ukraine has firmly rejected any territorial concessions and insists that its sovereignty and internationally recognized borders must be preserved.
The talks are taking place amid continued military pressure on the ground. Recent Russian strikes have intensified Ukraine’s winter power shortages, while Kyiv warns that energy facilities remain a frequent target.
Russia’s delegation is led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky and includes senior security and intelligence officials. Ukraine is represented by national security chief Rustem Umerov and senior presidential adviser Kyrylo Budanov. United States envoys are facilitating the discussions.
In addition to territorial questions, negotiators are expected to address the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, security guarantees, ceasefire monitoring, humanitarian measures and possible prisoner exchanges.
Washington has urged both sides to move toward an agreement, describing the conflict as a costly and unnecessary war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has cautioned that Kyiv should not be pressured into surrendering land in exchange for peace.
Earlier rounds of negotiations produced limited progress, including prisoner swaps, but failed to deliver a ceasefire or political breakthrough. Analysts say the deep divisions between the two sides mean expectations for an immediate settlement remain low.
Despite the challenges, the Geneva meeting is viewed as an important diplomatic effort that could shape future security arrangements in Europe and determine whether a negotiated end to the war is possible.