As the Ukraine war approaches its fourth year, a third round of negotiations mediated by the United States between Russia and Ukraine concluded without any substantial breakthroughs. Although representatives from the US characterized the discussions as having resulted in 'meaningful progress,' Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky challenged this view, asserting that Russia was intentionally stalling the talks. The discussions took place in Geneva, Switzerland, and were cut short after just two hours, with both sides agreeing to conduct further negotiations in the future.

Key issues at the center of the negotiations included the territorial status of regions in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Donetsk Oblast, as well as the operational plans related to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which remains under Russian control. Russia's demands include the transfer of approximately 20% of the eastern Donetsk region to its control, a proposal that Ukraine has firmly rejected. Reports indicate that a proposal for establishing a demilitarized zone in Donetsk Oblast was among the options discussed by the negotiating parties, although Zelensky has openly stated that the painful and difficult territorial questions can only be resolved through direct talks with Russia.

Moreover, Ukraine has sought to jointly operate Europe’s largest nuclear facility, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, with the US, but Russia firmly opposes this arrangement. In light of ongoing security concerns, Ukraine is requesting security guarantees from the US to deter potential future Russian attacks following any peace agreement. However, US President Donald Trump is pressuring for a resolution on territorial issues before providing security assurances, suggesting a completion of negotiations by June, ahead of the upcoming midterm elections in November.