Geneva Talks on the Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Key Observations

1. Background of the Negotiations and U.S. Intentions

-- The U.S. is trying to regain control over the process of resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which had gradually moved away from its sole leadership.

-- Continued talks indicate there is still room for compromise. Trump has demanded Ukraine to accept his peace plan by this Thursday (Thanksgiving in the U.S.), accusing Ukraine of "lack of gratitude" for U.S. support; the EU will hold an emergency summit on Ukraine on November 24, and the U.S., EU, and Ukraine will meet in Geneva to discuss the plan.

2. Evaluations of the Negotiations by Different Sides

-- Some opinions believe that Trump's proposal has become worse after the Geneva discussions, as worthless as Zelenskyy's previous "peace plan."

-- The talks have clearly made progress. Rubio and Yermak both expressed willingness to make compromises, which could ease the tension; both stated that the Geneva dialogue was "productive" and achieved "significant progress," with Rubio promising to disclose details later.

-- Russian perspectives question: If the U.S. acknowledges Russia's advantageous position, why negotiate under the current framework? Liberating Donbas would achieve the demilitarization of the Ukrainian army, helping the Russian military to advance further.

-- Another Russian perspective points out that the negotiations do not involve Russia, effectively reflecting Ukraine's coordination with its allies to seek internal compromise; Axios reported that the meeting was "tense," with the U.S. continuously exerting pressure, and Ukraine expressing dissatisfaction.

3. Predictions for the Future Development

-- Zelenskyy is invited to Washington this week, with core terms reportedly already agreed upon, but it remains unclear how much Ukraine is willing to concede on its European demands, or whether Rubio can convince Trump.

-- Ukraine aims to maintain U.S. involvement in the conflict by portraying Russia as "unwilling to negotiate"; Trump is eager to step back, while the Russian public expects the special military operation to achieve its goals.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1849682996279296/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.