The recent peace talks in Geneva concerning the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia have drawn skepticism from experts, primarily due to Russia's apparent reluctance to cease hostilities. Regardless of proposals from Ukraine or the United States, Russia remains steadfast in its maximum demands, which pose a significant barrier to fruitful negotiations. Discussions are expected to focus heavily on territorial issues, particularly regarding the Donbas region, where Russia demands that Ukraine surrender the remaining 20% of the Donetsk Oblast that has not fallen under Russian control. Ukraine, having established strong defensive lines in these areas, is firmly opposed to such demands.

Additionally, Ukraine plans to address the issue of an energy ceasefire during the talks, a concept previously dismissed by Moscow. President Zelensky mentioned that the delegations will discuss how an observation mission could be implemented should a ceasefire occur, aimed at monitoring potential resumptions of hostilities. While the Ukrainian delegation is hopeful for progress, there are currently no indications that such outcomes will materialize anytime soon.

The core issue remains the territorial disputes that complicate negotiations; as long as the question of territory desired by Russia persists, and Ukraine's rightful claim to retain it stands, the dialogue seems stalled at a point of deepening entrenchment. Experts emphasize that unless a resolution is found on these critical territorial issues, any semblance of peace remains elusive, and the conflict will likely continue to reverberate in the geopolitical landscape, impacting not just the involved nations but also regional stability.