Negotiations between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine are underway in Geneva, Switzerland, as Russia continues military operations in Ukraine. The talks, which began Tuesday, February 17, 2026, represent a renewed effort to find a path toward ending the nearly four-year-long conflict. The development underscores the ongoing international efforts to de-escalate the situation and seek a peaceful resolution.
France Releases Russian Oil Tanker After Payment of Multi-Million Euro Fine
France has released the oil tanker "Grinch," suspected of being part of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” after its owner paid a fine of several million euros. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced the release on X. Last month, French forces boarded the tanker while it was traveling between Spain and Morocco, after it began its journey towards Russia, before escorting it to a port near Marseille. “The ‘Grinch’ tanker is leaving French waters after paying several million euros and enduring a costly three-week detention in Fos-sur-Mer,” Barrot stated. “Evading European sanctions comes at a price. Russia will no longer be able to finance its war unpunished through a shadow fleet off our coasts.”
Peace Talks Between Kyiv, Moscow and US Begin in Geneva
Trilateral talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States have begun in Geneva, according to Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s chief negotiator. “Today we are starting a new round of trilateral negotiations between Ukraine, the United States and Russia,” he wrote on Telegram, posting a photo of the large horseshoe-shaped table where the delegations are seated. Russia and Ukraine occupy the two long sides, while the US sits at the short side. “We thank the American side for its commitment and constant work in the negotiation process. We are grateful to Switzerland for organizing and providing the conditions for the meetings,” he added.
Kyiv: “We Will Be Constructive in Negotiations, But Have No Excessive Expectations”
"Today we are starting another round of negotiations in a trilateral format: Ukraine, the United States, Russia. We thank the American side for its involvement and constant work in the negotiation process. We are grateful to Switzerland for the organization and conditions provided for the meetings," Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s chief negotiator, wrote on Telegram, posting an image of a table where the three delegations are seated. "We have a framework agreed upon by the President of Ukraine and a clear mandate. Security and humanitarian issues are on the agenda," he reiterated, stating they are "working constructively, focused and without unnecessary expectations. Our task is to promote to the maximum solutions that can bring a sustainable peace closer."
Moscow Establishes Special Unit to Protect Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant
The Kremlin is establishing a special fire protection unit for the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine. The organization of the unit, according to a draft decree by the President reported by TASS, will be headed by the Ministry of Emergency Situations. The unit will have a staff of 211 people and will develop into operational between 2027-2028. Control and operation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is a key issue in finding a solution to the war.
Russian Media: “Geneva Negotiations Will Proceed on At Least Five Tracks”
The trilateral negotiations on Ukraine today and tomorrow in Geneva will take place "on at least five tracks," a source told TASS. "Territorial, military, political, economic issues and security aspects," the source listed shortly before the start of the third round of contacts, following the two phases in Abu Dhabi.
EU: “New Package of Sanctions Against Moscow by February 24”
The European Commission has confirmed its intention to adopt the twentieth round of sanctions against Russia by February 24, the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs, Anouar El Anouni, announced this during the daily briefing. “We continue to work on measures to deprive Russia of the funds, assets and technologies that support its war against Ukraine – he added – This includes effectively the twentieth package that you mentioned, and we intend to adopt it… by February 24, as the High Representative Kaja Kallas stated at the last Foreign Affairs Council.” Member states are currently discussing the package.
Kyiv Considers Program to Freeze Soldiers’ Sperm at the Front
Ukraine launched a program at the start of the war to provide free sperm freezing for soldiers at the front. The BBC reports that the law stipulates that samples from all soldiers are stored free of charge for up to three years after their death and are available for use by the partner with written consent. The program as well aims to address a demographic crisis that existed before the Russian invasion, but has been exacerbated by the high number of men killed in action, many of whom were the youngest and fittest in Ukraine. “We are also thinking about the future and all the young people we have lost. Our soldiers are defending our future, but they may lose their own, so we wanted to offer them this opportunity,” Oksana Dmitrieva, a member of parliament who helped draft the law, told the British media outlet. During her visits to the front lines, the parliamentarian encourages soldiers to talk about their sex lives and fertility problems, and to consider freezing their sperm. “Our men are dying. The Ukrainian genetic heritage is dying. It's about the survival of our nation,” soldier Maxim told the BBC. The 35-year-old serves in the Ukrainian National Guard and, when he was on leave recently, his wife convinced him to go to a clinic in Kyiv and leave a sperm sample.
Kremlin: “Geneva Negotiations Will Continue Tomorrow, No Statements Today”
It is unlikely that any news will emerge from the Geneva talks on Ukraine today, as work is expected to continue tomorrow. This was stated by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during a briefing, according to TASS. “I don’t think we should expect any news today because, as you recognize, the work is scheduled to continue tomorrow. We do not intend to make any statements or comments,” Peskov noted. This morning, the Russian delegation, led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, arrived in Geneva for the talks.
Russian and Kyiv Delegations Arrive at Geneva Talks Venue
The Russian delegation, led by presidential advisor Vladimir Medinsky, has arrived at the InterContinental Hotel in Geneva, where the trilateral talks between Russia, the United States and Ukraine will be held. Russia Today published footage of the delegation’s arrival. The Ukrainian delegation has also arrived at the Geneva hotel, according to the Novosti.Live television channel. Previously, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that the talks on Ukraine would be held behind closed doors. Peskov also urged not to expect news from the talks between Russia, the United States and Ukraine in Geneva. The Russian delegation includes, among others, Igor Kostyukov, head of military intelligence (GRU), and Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin. Peskov had previously noted that the Russian delegation had been expanded compared to the negotiations in Abu Dhabi. The range of issues to be discussed in Geneva has also been expanded to include the thorny territorial issues.
Kremlin: “Moscow Accuses Kyiv of Using Energy Blackmail Against Hungary”
Ukraine is using energy blackmail against Hungary, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Citing the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, Reuters reported that the transit of Russian oil to Eastern Europe through the Ukrainian section of the Druzhba pipeline has been suspended since January 27. “We see that, of course, there is energy blackmail by Ukraine against Hungary, a member of the EU,” Peskov said to journalists, as reported by Ria Novosti.
Kyiv: “Russia Ignoring Peace Efforts, Attacks Energy and Infrastructure”
"The extent to which Russia ignores peace efforts: a massive missile and drone attack against Ukraine shortly before the next round of talks in Geneva. The main targets: energy and civilian infrastructure. Moscow only understands the language of pressure. It will not take diplomacy seriously unless it is backed by force. New sanctions packages are essential. Blocking the shadow fleet. A ban on maritime services. A ban on entry for participants in Russian aggression. Only our unity and strength will end this war," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiga wrote on X.
Kremlin: “15 Years in Prison Sought for 2024 Crocus Terror Attack”
Life sentences have been requested by the prosecution in the trial before a military court in Moscow for the terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall in March 2024, which killed 149 people and injured about 600. The Kommersant newspaper reports that a life sentence was requested for the four defendants accused of being the perpetrators of the attack and for 11 of their alleged accomplices. For another four defendants, sentences of 20 to 23 years were requested. The attack on the concert hall, which occurred on March 22 before a performance by the Picnic musical group, was claimed by Khorasan Vilayat, the Central Asian branch of ISIS, but Russian authorities accuse the Ukrainian leadership of being the instigator. The four accused of being the perpetrators, Saidakram Rachabalizoda, Muhammadsobir Faizov, Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev and Shamsidin Fariduni, were arrested the following morning in the Bryansk region while, according to Russian investigators, they were heading towards the Ukrainian border.
Sweden: “Russian Economy is in Difficulty”
The Russian economy "represents 12% of the European economy, but is also highly weak and is now under strong pressure. We know this from intelligence, and we also know it from various data elaborated by researchers. I just want to remember that we are still united in the EU. That means a lot," said Swedish Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson upon her arrival at the Ecofin meeting. “Four years have passed since the terrible Russian invasion of Ukraine. I imagine Putin thought he would win quite quickly, but he is not winning at all. Four years have passed, the Ukrainians are fighting and we are helping them, and I am very happy that the twentieth package of sanctions is coming, because we know that sanctions work. – she continues – I remember that about two years ago I commissioned a report on the Russian economy because I was quite tired of all the images talking about the strong Russian economy by institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, but also by the media and politicians.”
Zelensky: “Nine Injured, Including Children, in Russian Raids on 12 Regions”
"In Odessa, tens of thousands of people have been left without heating and water after the drone attack. All necessary services are working to provide assistance. In total, 12 regions were hit and, unfortunately, 9 people were injured, including children. More than ten residential buildings and railway infrastructure were damaged," President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote in a social media post.
Zelensky: “Russia Launched Attack with 400 Drones and 29 Missiles”
"In many of our regions, rescue and repair operations are underway following a massive Russian attack. It was a combined attack, deliberately calculated to cause the greatest possible damage to our energy sector. Nearly 400 drones and 29 missiles of various types were used, including ballistic missiles. A significant number were shot down, but unfortunately there were also hits," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote in a social media post. "Partners must respond to all these attacks against life. Russia must be held accountable for its aggression. The new packages of sanctions are crucial. Blocking the shadow fleet. A ban on maritime services. A ban on entry for participants in Russian aggression. Only our unity and strength will end this war."
Kyiv: “Russian Attack on Sumy Injures One, Six Others”
A 68-year-old woman was killed by a Russian drone attack in the border region of Sumy. Ukrainian authorities reported the incident, according to local media. The person driving the car was transported to the hospital. Six others were injured, including two boys aged 7 and 15.
Russian Delegation Arrives in Geneva
The Russian delegation participating in the talks on Ukraine with the mediation of the United States has arrived in Geneva. Russian media report that “the plane” carrying the delegation has landed, led by Vladimir Medinski.
Russian Drones Strike Odessa, Injuring Two and Damaging Infrastructure
Two people were injured and infrastructure and a residential building were damaged following a drone attack by Russia in Odessa. Ukrinform reports that Serhiy Lysak, the head of the Odessa administration, said this in a Telegram post. “As a result of the attack, infrastructure and civilian buildings were damaged. A fire broke out on the upper floors of a residential building in one area. In another, a shop and a gas station were damaged,” he wrote. Currently, it is known that two people were injured and are receiving all necessary assistance. “All relevant services are working on the ground.”
Trump: “Ukraine Must Sit Down at the Negotiating Table as Soon as Possible”
"Ukraine must sit down at the negotiating table as soon as possible," Donald Trump said in response to a question from reporters about the Geneva negotiations aboard Air Force One.
Kyiv: “Ukrainian Delegation Arrives in Geneva for Talks”
The Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Geneva to participate in the trilateral talks between representatives of Washington, Kyiv and Moscow scheduled for tomorrow and the day after in the Swiss city, Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, announced. “Today we are starting another round of negotiations in a trilateral format.”
Zelensky: “Moscow Preparing New Massive Attacks”
"Intelligence reports indicate that the Russians are preparing new massive attacks on energy infrastructure, and air defense must be properly configured. Any delay in the supply of missiles for air defense will expand the damage from the attacks. Everything discussed in Munich must be implemented quickly," Zelensky said.
Kremlin: “Attempt to Block Russian Fleet Could Be Dangerous for EU”
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Serghei Ryabkov stated that any attempt to "block" the Russian tanker fleet could have negative consequences. “Regarding the possibility of the Russian fleet being ‘blocked’, I would warn against rushing to conclusions about this possibility,” Ryabkov said, as reported by TASS. “The number of countries in the European Union is not, in itself, a winning card in this game and is extremely dangerous for the EU itself,” the Russian official added, recalling that Moscow has experience “in implementing measures to protect freedom of navigation.” Previously, Bloomberg, citing sources in Brussels, reported that the European Union was preparing to abolish the price cap on Russian oil, replacing it, as part of the twentieth package of sanctions, with an absolute ban on providing maritime services to tankers, regardless of the price paid by customers for supplies. The ban is expected to include the provision of financial, legal, and insurance services to any shipper of Russian oil.
Car Explosion in Odessa: Ukrainian Intelligence Calls it Terrorism
An act of terrorism. This is how the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) framed what happened this morning in Odessa, where a car exploded near a building in the southern part of the city. The person driving the car was taken to the hospital. According to local media, he is a former military man. Ten days ago, a car exploded in Odessa, in the Kyivskyi area, killing a 21-year-old. On that occasion, too, the SBU spoke of an "act of terrorism." The conflict triggered by the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022, is entering its fourth year.
Germany and Britain: “Arm Yourselves Against Possible Russian Attack”
The military leadership of Germany and Great Britain are warning Europeans, in a joint appeal, and urging them to arm themselves against a possible Russian attack. Moscow is gradually moving its military deployment further west, wrote German Inspector General Carsten Breuer and British Chief of the General Staff Richard Knighton, in a message published by Welt and the Guardian. Russian armed forces have been armed to the point "where the risk of conflict with NATO could increase," the message reads.
Kremlin: “Kyiv Using Energy Blackmail Against Hungary”
Ukraine is using energy blackmail against Hungary, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Citing the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, Reuters reported that the transit of Russian oil to Eastern Europe through the Ukrainian section of the Druzhba pipeline has been suspended since January 27. “We see that, of course, there is energy blackmail by Ukraine against Hungary, a member of the EU,” Peskov said to journalists, as reported by Ria Novosti.
Car Explodes in Odessa: Ukrainian Intelligence Calls it Terrorism
A car exploded in Odessa, injuring one person. Ukrainian authorities are investigating the incident as an act of terrorism.
Germany and Britain: “Arm Against Possible Russian Attack”
The military leadership of Germany and Great Britain are urging European nations to prepare for a potential Russian attack.
