On February 19, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed discontent regarding the results of the trilateral discussions held in Geneva with representatives from the United States and Russia. In a video message shared on social media, Zelenskyy emphasized that essential political issues, including potential compromises aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, received inadequate attention during the meetings.

Next Meeting Scheduled for February

Zelenskyy indicated that another meeting is planned for later this month. He stated, “As of today, we cannot say that the outcome of the meetings in Geneva is sufficient. While military representatives engaged in serious discussions, crucial political topics and necessary leader engagements were not sufficiently addressed. We are looking forward to the next meeting, which should take place in February.”

Context of the Geneva Talks

The Geneva talks are part of broader international efforts, facilitated by the United States, to achieve a negotiated resolution to the war between Ukraine and Russia, which commenced in February 2022. The recent discussions followed two previous rounds of negotiations brokered by the US, conducted in the United Arab Emirates during January and early February.

Ukrainian Officials Involved in Discussions

According to the Russian news agency TASS, representatives from Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council (NSDC), including Secretary Rustem Umerov and ruling party faction head David Arakhamia, took part in a closed-door meeting in Geneva. They met with Vladimir Medinsky, a presidential aide from Russia, who was also head of the Russian delegation.

Escalation of Military Tensions

Prior to the trilateral talks, Zelenskyy announced that Russia launched a significant attack involving 29 missiles and approximately 400 drones. He reported that this assault occurred just before the commencement of the Geneva discussions. In his statement, Zelenskyy noted that nine individuals, including children, sustained injuries during the attacks.

Ukraine’s Air Defense Performance Highlighted

Zelenskyy reported that Ukrainian air defense systems successfully intercepted 25 out of the 29 missiles launched by Russia. He remarked, “In the massive strike that marked the beginning of the day, 29 missiles of various types were fired, and 25 were shot down. This represents an important achievement for our air defense system, which remains a vital necessity. I extend my gratitude to all our partners who recognize this situation.”

Accusations Against Russia

In his video message, Zelenskyy criticized Moscow, asserting that the simultaneous military strike during the Geneva talks illustrates Russia’s genuine intentions. He stated, “Russia greets with a strike even on the very day new formats begin in Geneva—trilateral and bilateral with the United States. This very clearly demonstrates what Russia desires and what it is truly intent on.”

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