Russia-Ukraine talks resume in Geneva as US claims ‘meaningful’ progress

Al JazeeraCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete by Al Jazeera StaffFebruary 18, 2026 at 09:30 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States resumed in Geneva, Switzerland, on February 18, 2026, marking the third round of negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. The talks occur as the four-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches. While details remain scarce, US special envoy Steve Witkoff indicated "meaningful progress," stating both sides agreed to update their leaders and continue working towards a deal. Ukraine's lead negotiator, Rustem Umerov, acknowledged the constructive engagement of the American counterparts. Previous talks in Abu Dhabi yielded prisoner exchanges but failed to address the core issue of territorial disputes, with Russia demanding the Donbas region, a demand Ukraine constitutionally opposes. The negotiations focus on practical issues and potential solutions.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

X ×230% Telegram 30% Abu Dhabi 40% Kyiv ×250% Donbas 50% Donald Trump 60% Rustem Umerov ×260% Steve Witkoff ×270% Geneva ×370% United States ×370% Russia ×790% Ukraine ×1090%

Keywords

russia-ukraine talks 100% peace negotiations 80% geneva 70% us involvement 70% territorial dispute 60% donbas region 60% meaningful progress 50% prisoner exchange 50% ukraine invasion 40%