Moscow, February 16, 2026 – Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced on Monday that upcoming talks in Geneva on the Ukraine situation will expand beyond the previously discussed Abu Dhabi agenda to include territorial issues, signaling a potential broadening of the peace negotiations.
Peskov emphasized Russian President Vladimir Putin's direct involvement, stating that Putin is in constant contact with the Russian negotiators handling the Ukraine situation. "Of course, the president is in constant contact with our negotiators," Peskov told reporters when asked whether Putin planned to hold a meeting with the Russian delegation currently at the talks in Geneva.
The spokesman revealed that the Russian delegation received detailed instructions from Putin on the eve of their departure for the Geneva talks. This hands-on approach from the Russian leader underscores the high stakes of the discussions, which Peskov described as focusing on the main issues at hand.
According to Peskov, the Geneva talks on Ukraine are expected to address core matters, including those related to territories. This development marks a shift from the Abu Dhabi agenda, potentially opening the door to more comprehensive resolutions amid ongoing tensions.
The announcement comes as Russia engages in peace talks involving key players, with tags associating the event to Russia, the US, Ukraine, and Geneva. Peskov's comments were made during a press interaction on Monday, February 16, 2026, highlighting the Kremlin's proactive stance in the negotiations.
While specific details on the territorial discussions remain limited, Peskov's statements suggest an intensification of diplomatic efforts. The Russian delegation's preparation under Putin's guidance positions Moscow to tackle what the official termed as "the main issues" in Geneva.
