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Ukraine Rejects Russia's Demilitarization Proposal in Geneva Talks

2/21/2026

23 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

During United States (U.S.)-mediated talks in Geneva on February 17-18, Ukraine and Russia discussed a joint civilian administration for a demilitarized Donbas.
Ukraine rejected the plan as unrealistic.
The proposal would require Ukrainian troop withdrawals, which Ukraine opposes.
Despite the stalemate, President Volodymyr Zelensky noted all parties agreed the United States would oversee any ceasefire.

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Story summary

During United States (U.S.)-mediated talks in Geneva on February 17-18, Ukraine and Russia discussed a joint civilian administration for a demilitarized Donbas.
Ukraine rejected the plan as unrealistic.
The proposal would require Ukrainian troop withdrawals, which Ukraine opposes.
Despite the stalemate, President Volodymyr Zelensky noted all parties agreed the United States would oversee any ceasefire.