Zelenskyy Says Geneva Peace Talks With Russia Fall Short of Breakthrough

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the latest peace talks with Russia in Geneva produced limited progress and failed to resolve key political issues needed to end the war.

In a video message, Zelenskyy stated that while discussions were constructive on certain military matters, the overall outcome was not sufficient to move toward a comprehensive peace agreement.

The negotiations, brokered by the United States and held in Geneva, marked the third direct round of talks between Kyiv and Moscow this year.

Political Compromises and Leaders’ Meeting Still Unresolved

Zelenskyy said the most sensitive issues remain unresolved, including political compromises required to end the conflict and the possibility of a face-to-face meeting between leaders.

He emphasised that these unresolved questions are critical to achieving any meaningful ceasefire or long-term settlement.

Ukraine is pushing for another round of talks later this month, signalling continued diplomatic engagement despite limited results so far.

Fighting Continues Amid Diplomacy

Even as negotiations were underway, hostilities continued along the roughly 1,250-kilometre front line.

Ukrainian officials reported that Russian drone strikes hit the southern city of Zaporizhzhia, resulting in civilian casualties. Overnight attacks reportedly included ballistic missiles and long-range drones targeting multiple areas.

The ongoing violence underscores the fragile nature of diplomatic efforts as military operations continue on both sides.

Kremlin Response and Positions Remain Far Apart

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said it was too early to discuss outcomes, noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin was being briefed on developments.

Moscow has reiterated its key demands, including Ukraine renouncing NATO membership, reducing its military capacity, and withdrawing from eastern regions claimed by Russia.

Kyiv has rejected territorial concessions, with Zelenskyy maintaining that Ukraine will not surrender sovereign land.

War Nears Fourth Year Amid Diplomatic Efforts

As the conflict approaches its fourth year, diplomacy continues alongside ongoing military operations. The Geneva talks reflect cautious engagement but highlight the significant gap between both sides.

Analysts say future progress will depend on political compromise, security guarantees, and sustained international mediation.

For now, negotiations continue under the shadow of missile strikes and drone attacks, illustrating the complex path toward ending one of Europe’s most significant conflicts in decades.