'Difficult' Russia-Ukraine peace talks end without breakthrough

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete February 18, 2026 at 12:26 PM

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medium article 2 min

Peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the US in Geneva this week concluded without a breakthrough. The meetings, aimed at resolving the ongoing war in Ukraine, were described as "difficult" by both Russian and Ukrainian representatives due to disagreements on territory and ceasefire terms. While a US envoy expressed initial optimism, key issues remain unresolved after four years of conflict. Despite the challenges, both sides indicated the discussions were "businesslike" and "substantive," with a potential future meeting planned. Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of prolonging negotiations, while also suggesting a possible prisoner exchange. The US has signaled impatience with the deadlock, urging Ukraine to compromise, a sentiment Zelensky has rejected.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Steve Witkoff 40% Donbas 40% Rustem Umerov 50% Vladimir Medinsky 50% Donald Trump 50% Geneva ×260% Kyiv ×260% Moscow ×260% United States ×370% Volodymyr Zelensky ×480% Ukraine ×1190% Russia ×890%

Keywords

peace talks 100% russia-ukraine war 90% negotiations 80% ceasefire 70% territory 70% diplomatic efforts 60% donbas 50% prisoner exchange 50% deadlock 40%