Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a forceful call for "justice and strength" as Russian military attacks continue just hours before a new round of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are set to begin in Geneva, Switzerland. Senior officials from both nations are gathering for the two-day meeting, which is being brokered by the United States administration, days before the fourth anniversary of Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Peace Talks Amid Escalating Violence
The negotiations in Geneva are expected to mirror discussions held earlier this month in Abu Dhabi, with representatives from Washington, Kyiv, and Moscow in attendance. Despite renewed diplomatic efforts by the US to revive peace talks, hopes for any sudden breakthrough remain low. Analysts note that Russia continues to press maximalist demands on Ukraine, complicating the path to a resolution.
Overnight, Russia launched a significant assault on Ukrainian territory, with Zelenskyy reporting nearly 400 drones and 29 missiles of various types targeted at the country. "It was a combined strike, deliberately calculated to cause as much damage as possible to our energy sector," the Ukrainian president stated, highlighting the severity of the attacks.
Zelenskyy's Appeal for International Action
In response to the ongoing aggression, Zelenskyy urged international partners to "respond to all these strikes against life" and hold Russia accountable. He emphasized that effective diplomacy requires both justice and strength, calling for increased pressure on the Russian Federation through sanctions and steady, rapid support for the Ukrainian army and air defence systems.
"For peace to be real and just, action must target the sole source of this aggression – because it is Moscow that continues the killings, massive attacks, and assaults," Zelenskyy asserted, underscoring the need for a robust international response to curb Russian hostilities.
Broader Diplomatic Context
Alongside the Ukraine-Russia talks, the US delegation in Geneva will also hold separate discussions with Iran regarding its nuclear programme, as tensions rise in the region. This dual focus highlights the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the negotiations, with multiple crises intersecting on the global stage.
As the talks proceed, updates will be closely monitored, with the international community watching for any signs of progress amid the backdrop of continued violence. The meeting marks a critical juncture in the long-running conflict, with the fourth anniversary of the war looming large over the discussions.
