Trump Urges Ukraine to Engage Quickly as New Peace Talks Begin

Fresh efforts to end nearly four years of war between Russia and Ukraine are underway as delegations from both countries met in Geneva for US-brokered negotiations. The talks come at a critical moment, just days before the fourth anniversary of Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, but expectations for a breakthrough remain cautious.

Hours before the discussions began, US President Donald Trump urged Kyiv to accelerate its engagement in the peace process. Speaking to reporters, he said Ukraine had “better come to the table fast,” underscoring Washington’s push to advance diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

The two-day trilateral talks in Switzerland follow earlier negotiations held in Abu Dhabi that failed to produce a political settlement. Representatives from the United States are acting as mediators in the latest round, seeking to narrow gaps between the warring sides.

Ukraine’s delegation head Rustem Umerov said the discussions would focus on security concerns and humanitarian issues. He added that Kyiv would approach the talks without excessive expectations, signalling a pragmatic stance amid complex geopolitical realities.

Territorial disputes remain central obstacle

One of the most contentious issues is the future of Russian-occupied territories. Moscow continues to press for concessions over eastern regions it controls or claims, while Ukraine has firmly rejected any proposal that would involve surrendering land.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has maintained that any settlement must include credible post-war security guarantees backed by Western allies. Ukrainian officials argue that such guarantees are essential to prevent future aggression.

The Russian delegation is led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who previously participated in negotiations during the early months of the conflict. Kremlin officials have cautioned against expecting immediate results, suggesting the discussions may extend beyond the initial timetable.

Technical and military aspects under review

In parallel with political talks, military representatives from the United States, Russia and Ukraine are expected to discuss technical aspects of a potential ceasefire. These discussions may include monitoring mechanisms, communication channels and the structure of demilitarised zones.

Earlier military-level consultations explored ways to prevent accidental escalations and maintain stability along the front lines if a ceasefire were agreed upon.

Conflict continues amid negotiations

The talks are taking place against the backdrop of ongoing hostilities. Ukrainian authorities reported overnight attacks involving hundreds of drones and multiple missiles that damaged infrastructure and injured civilians. Russia, meanwhile, reported intercepting Ukrainian drones and damage to energy facilities following cross-border strikes.

Ukraine has indicated it is open to realistic peace proposals, including the possibility of an unconditional and long-term ceasefire. However, Kyiv insists that accountability and security assurances remain essential components of any agreement.

Russia currently controls roughly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, with a front line extending more than 1,200 kilometres.

Analysts say the Geneva talks represent another attempt to bridge deep divisions, but significant differences remain. The outcome of the negotiations could shape the future security landscape of Europe and determine whether diplomacy can bring an end to one of the most consequential conflicts in recent history.