Russia, Ukraine to hold next peace talks in Geneva on Feb. 17-18

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced the date and location during a press briefing on Friday, stating that the talks would follow the same trilateral format as previous rounds. The upcoming negotiations build on two earlier rounds of US-mediated talks held in Abu Dhabi in January and early February, which resulted in the first prisoner exchange between the warring parties in five months.

Building on previous diplomatic progress

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had indicated earlier this week that negotiations were expected on February 17-18, a timeline now confirmed by Moscow. His communications advisor Dmytro Lytvyn also verified the details to Ukrainian media. The talks represent continued diplomatic engagement aimed at de-escalating Europe's deadliest conflict since World War II, with the United States playing an increasingly active mediating role.

Economic cooperation contingent on peace

Peskov also addressed separate reports about potential Russia-US economic cooperation, acknowledging mutual interest from companies in both countries. However, he stressed that meaningful discussion of expanded economic ties would remain unlikely until a resolution is reached on Ukraine. Regarding reports of Russia proposing a return to dollar settlement systems, Peskov noted that Moscow never abandoned the dollar but that Washington restricted its use. "If the dollar is attractive, then everyone will return to using it, including alongside other currencies," he stated.

No Gaza peace board participation

On Middle East matters, the Kremlin spokesman confirmed Russia will not participate in the upcoming Board of Peace meeting scheduled for February 19 in Washington, focused on a Gaza settlement. Nineteen countries signed the charter establishing the board during the World Economic Forum in Davos in January. Russia's absence from this initiative, coupled with its active engagement in Ukraine peace talks, signals Moscow's strategic priorities in focusing on the conflict closest to its borders while maintaining distance from other regional diplomatic efforts.