On a recent communication from Geneva, US Special Envoy Steve Vitkoff reported significant progress in the ongoing tripartite discussions involving the US, Ukraine, and Russia. The talks, which saw their third round convene on Tuesday, followed two earlier rounds held in Abu Dhabi earlier this year. In a statement shared on social media platform X, Vitkoff noted that both sides agreed to keep their leaders informed and continue working towards a consensus, indicating positive momentum in a complex diplomatic process.

The discussions reportedly lasted six hours and were characterized as highly intense, as revealed by a source close to the Russian delegation according to the AFP news agency. However, the mood surrounding the negotiations seems to differ markedly when accounting for the perspective of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In his evening address, Zelensky expressed readiness to expedite efforts for a dignified agreement to end the conflict but simultaneously expressed skepticism about Russia’s true commitment to peace, suggesting that Moscow prefers missile strikes over genuine diplomatic engagement.

The ongoing negotiations underscore the critical state of international diplomacy as efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine continue. The involvement of high-profile figures like Vitkoff and Jared Kushner signifies the US’s deep commitment to the situation, but the diverging outlooks from both the US and Ukraine highlight the challenges ahead. As both nations strive for a peaceful resolution while facing Russia's military assertiveness, the implications of these talks will play a crucial role in shaping future relations and security in the region.