Russia and Ukraine prepare for Geneva peace talks as fighting intensifies

Delegations from Moscow and Kyiv are set to meet in Geneva for fresh negotiations, even as Russian attacks continue across Ukrainian cities.

Representatives from Russia and Ukraine are preparing to meet in Geneva for a new round of peace negotiations, diplomatic sources confirmed. The talks come at a tense moment, as Russian forces continue air and missile strikes across several Ukrainian regions.

Officials say the discussions aim to explore possible ceasefire terms and humanitarian corridors. However, fighting on the ground has not slowed. Ukrainian authorities reported overnight drone and missile attacks targeting energy infrastructure and residential districts.

The renewed violence has cast doubt over the prospects of immediate progress. Still, both sides have agreed to send delegations to Switzerland in an attempt to reopen dialogue.

In recent days, Russian forces have launched strikes in eastern and southern Ukraine. Ukrainian officials in Kyiv and Kharkiv said air defence systems intercepted several drones, but damage occurred in some areas.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks and said they undermine trust ahead of negotiations. He urged international partners to maintain pressure on Moscow.

Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry stated that its forces targeted what it described as military infrastructure. Moscow has consistently argued that it focuses on strategic sites rather than civilian areas.

Independent verification of battlefield claims remains difficult. However, international observers say violence has intensified in key frontline regions.

The Geneva meeting follows weeks of diplomatic efforts led by European mediators. Switzerland has offered to host the talks, citing its long tradition of neutrality and support for dialogue.

Diplomats familiar with the preparations say the agenda will likely include prisoner exchanges, grain export routes, and localised ceasefires. Broader territorial disputes may prove harder to resolve.

Officials from the United Nations are expected to attend in an observer capacity. The UN has repeatedly called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and expanded humanitarian access.

The choice of Geneva reflects its reputation as a centre for international diplomacy. Previous high-level meetings on global security and arms control have taken place in the Swiss city.

Kyiv has maintained that any peace framework must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and internationally recognised borders. Ukrainian leaders insist that territorial integrity remains non-negotiable.

Zelenskyy said his delegation will seek concrete security guarantees. He also called for continued Western military and financial support to strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating position.

Ukrainian officials argue that Moscow must demonstrate genuine willingness to compromise. They warn that talks cannot succeed if attacks continue during discussions.

Public opinion in Ukraine remains cautious. Many citizens support diplomacy but distrust Russia’s intentions after years of conflict.

The Kremlin has expressed readiness for dialogue but insists that its security concerns must be addressed. Russian officials have criticised Western military aid to Ukraine, calling it a barrier to peace.

President Vladimir Putin has previously said that any settlement must recognise what Moscow describes as “new territorial realities.” Kyiv firmly rejects that position.

Russian diplomats have signalled that humanitarian issues could serve as a starting point. They also emphasise the need to prevent further NATO expansion, a long-standing point of tension.

Analysts say both sides enter Geneva with deeply entrenched demands. That reality could limit immediate breakthroughs.

European leaders have welcomed the resumption of talks but urged caution. The European Union has stressed that negotiations must align with international law.

The United States has reiterated support for Ukraine while encouraging diplomatic engagement. Washington officials say they will monitor developments closely.

Human rights organisations continue to report civilian casualties and displacement. They call for urgent measures to protect non-combatants and restore essential services.

Energy markets have also reacted to the renewed uncertainty. Traders remain sensitive to any escalation that could disrupt supply chains.

Peace talks during active conflict face structural obstacles. Military developments often shape political calculations. Gains or losses on the battlefield can influence negotiating leverage.

Trust remains in short supply between Moscow and Kyiv. Previous rounds of dialogue have stalled amid accusations of bad faith.

Observers note that even limited agreements, such as local ceasefires or humanitarian corridors, could reduce suffering. However, a comprehensive settlement may require sustained international mediation.

Security experts argue that confidence-building measures could help create momentum. These steps might include expanded prisoner exchanges or protection of energy facilities.

Delegations are expected to arrive in Geneva within days. Talks may begin with closed-door sessions before any public statements.

Diplomats caution that progress will likely come in stages. Immediate results remain uncertain. However, the decision to meet signals that communication channels remain open.

For civilians in conflict-affected regions, even small steps toward de-escalation would bring relief. The coming days will show whether diplomacy can gain ground despite ongoing violence.