High-Stakes Diplomacy: Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Kick Off in Geneva

The first day of U.S.-mediated peace talks between Ukraine and Russia concluded in Geneva without significant progress. With ongoing airstrikes and territorial disputes, President Zelenskiy and negotiating teams continue seeking resolutions. Expectations remain low as U.S., Ukrainian, and Russian representatives navigate complex political landscapes while maintaining cautious hopes for peace.

In Geneva, U.S.-mediated peace talks between Ukraine and Russia concluded their first of two days with limited advancement. The negotiations occurred against a backdrop of continued Russian airstrikes in Ukraine, contributing to severe damage in Odesa and leaving civilians without heating and water.

President Zelenskiy expressed Ukraine's readiness for a constructive agreement, underscoring the urgency amid the four-year-old conflict. However, the talks appear to be stalled over key issues such as territorial control in eastern Ukraine, with little optimism from negotiators for a breakthrough.

U.S. President Donald Trump maintains pressure on Kyiv to expedite the negotiation process, emphasizing the necessity of reaching a prompt accord. Despite U.S. facilitation and European interest, achieving consensus remains challenging, as substantial differences persist between the involved parties.

(With inputs from agencies.)