Russia Plays It Cool on Ukraine Peace Talks While Doubling Down on Cuba Ties

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Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented today (February 18) that it's still too early to talk outcomes from the latest Ukraine negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland. These US-brokered trilateral talks (Russia, Ukraine, and the US) wrapped up their first day yesterday with no big breakthroughs reported – sources described them as "tense," and Peskov had already warned not to expect major news right away. The discussions, now resuming today, are covering a broader range of issues than before, especially thorny ones like territorial claims and security guarantees, as the war nears its four-year mark. Progress reports will go straight to President Putin from the Russian delegation led by Vladimir Medinsky.

On the Cuba front, Peskov stressed Russia's unwavering opposition to the long-standing US blockade, calling it illegitimate and emphasizing Moscow's commitment to strong, supportive relations with Havana during these tough times – including ongoing energy assistance amid Cuba's fuel crisis. He made clear that backing Cuba doesn't interfere with Russia's dialogue with the US on Ukraine. Putin is set to meet Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez at the Kremlin today (though some reports note Foreign Minister Lavrov handling related talks too), highlighting the priority Moscow places on this alliance.

Geopolitics in play: Russia keeping its cards close on Ukraine while reinforcing old-school ties elsewhere. No quick wins in sight for peace talks, but the diplomacy train keeps rolling.

What do you think, bro – any real shot at a deal in Geneva, or just more posturing?

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#Geopolitics #Ukraine #Russia #Cuba #PeaceTalks