New talks on Ukraine could take place in three weeks — Witkoff

New talks on Ukraine could take place in three weeks — Witkoff

New Talks on Ukraine Conflict Loom as Mediation Efforts Intensify

Special U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff has indicated that new negotiations between Ukraine and Russia could occur within three weeks, potentially culminating in a high-level meeting between Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin. Speaking to Fox News, Witkoff emphasized that proposals put forward by U.S. envoys Witkoff and Jared Kushner aim to bridge divides and bring them together in the next three weeks. While no concrete agreements have materialized, the envoy expressed cautious optimism, noting that both sides appear open to dialogue.

This development follows a series of stalled mediation attempts since Russia's 2022 invasion. Previous efforts, including China's 12-point peace plan (2022), Africa's de-escalation proposal (2023), and a U.S.-led Geneva summit (2024), have failed to secure a lasting resolution. Recent trilateral talks in Geneva (February 17–18, 2026) focused on prisoner exchanges and ceasefire mechanisms but left territorial disputes unresolved according to reports. Ukraine's delegation described discussions as "intensive and substantive," though no breakthroughs were announced.

Economic and energy dynamics continue to shape the conflict's trajectory. Hungary's blockade of a €90 billion EU aid package for Ukraine—tied to the resumption of Russian oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline—has heightened tensions, with Slovakia and Hungary threatening to cut electricity and fuel supplies to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia's retail trade turnover rose 12.3% year-on-year in February 2026, reflecting resilience in domestic markets amid sanctions.

Financial markets remain sensitive to geopolitical shifts. The U.S. recently adjusted tariffs, raising rates to 15% globally, while Russia advances alternative payment systems to reduce reliance on Western financial infrastructure. Analysts note that a prolonged conflict risks further destabilizing global trade, particularly in energy and agriculture, sectors already strained by the war.

As Witkoff and Kushner continue shuttle diplomacy, investors are monitoring whether pragmatic compromises—such as localized ceasefires or phased prisoner swaps—can pave the way for broader negotiations. For now, the path to peace remains fraught, with both sides balancing military, political, and economic priorities.