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U.S.-Brokered Peace Talks Resume Amid Ongoing Ukraine-Russia Strikes

2/18/2026

Center

Ukraine Pursues Peace Talks

The U.S.-brokered peace talks resumed in Geneva amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine hostilities.
Both sides launched long-range strikes just before the negotiations, with Ukraine targeting Russian oil infrastructure.
Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov said he has low expectations for the talks due to Russia's missile and drone attacks causing casualties and power outages in Ukraine.
Ukraine seeks Western-backed guarantees before territorial concessions.
The Kremlin demands troop withdrawals from strategic areas.

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Ukraine Strikes Infrastructure

Ukraine intensified long-range strikes on Russian oil and fuel infrastructure, conducting nearly 160 strikes in 2025 to raise Russia's wartime costs.
Russia launched 229 attacks on Ukraine's Naftogaz, severely impairing gas production.
DTEK planned to invest 300 million euros for repairs.
Australia contributed $7.1 million to energy stability.
As of February 2026, Ukraine's energy infrastructure remains under severe strain, meeting about 60% of demand.

History

Historical Context

The Treaty of Versailles, signed on June 28, 1919, ended World War I and imposed heavy reparations on Germany, leading to long-term instability in Europe. The treaty's punitive measures, particularly Article 231, sparked resentment and contributed to the rise of extremist movements. Today, Ukraine's negotiations for security guarantees against Russian aggression echo these historical tensions, highlighting the ongoing struggle for regional stability.

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Ukraine Pursues Peace Talks

The U.S.-brokered peace talks resumed in Geneva amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine hostilities.
Both sides launched long-range strikes just before the negotiations, with Ukraine targeting Russian oil infrastructure.
Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov said he has low expectations for the talks due to Russia's missile and drone attacks causing casualties and power outages in Ukraine.
Ukraine seeks Western-backed guarantees before territorial concessions.
The Kremlin demands troop withdrawals from strategic areas.

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