Tensions High as Ukraine and Russia Continue Peace Talks in Geneva

Ukrainian and Russian negotiators resumed peace talks in Geneva as President Zelenskiy expressed concerns over U.S. pressure to end the conflict. Zelenskiy opposed Ukraine giving up any uncontested territory in Donbas and expressed hope for a fair agreement. Talks were tense, with limited progress reported.

Ukrainian and Russian negotiators engaged in another day of peace talks in Geneva amid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's concerns over U.S. pressure to conclude the ongoing conflict. The talks come as U.S. President Donald Trump urges Ukraine to take decisive steps towards a peace plan.

Zelenskiy, in an interview with Axios, criticized Trump's public calls for Ukraine to make concessions in negotiations, deeming it unfair. Zelenskiy emphasized that any proposal requiring Ukraine to relinquish territory not seized by Russia in the Donbas would not gain public support.

While thanking Trump for his efforts, Zelenskiy disclosed that discussions with U.S. mediators, including envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, lacked any pressurizing. Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov reported the talks were tense and focused on practical decision mechanics, but substantial steps forward seem distant.

(With inputs from agencies.)