Berlin-hosted peace talks between Ukraine, the United States, and key European countries entered their second day on Monday without reaching a decisive agreement on the future of disputed territories, though diplomats described the discussions as showing notable political and diplomatic progress.
According to officials familiar with the negotiations, the talks have focused on narrowing gaps over security guarantees, ceasefire mechanisms, and post-war arrangements, while the most contentious issue — the status of territories seized during the war — remains unresolved. Despite this, participants characterized the atmosphere as “constructive” and “more pragmatic” than in previous rounds.
Gradual Movement, Not a Breakthrough
Western diplomats said the absence of an immediate agreement should not be interpreted as failure. Instead, they pointed to progress in defining framework principles for a potential settlement, including phased de-escalation, international monitoring, and long-term security assurances for Ukraine.
Ukrainian representatives reiterated that any peace deal must respect the country’s sovereignty and international law, while signaling openness to diplomatic sequencing rather than immediate final-status decisions. U.S. and European officials emphasized the need for a “durable and enforceable” outcome rather than a rushed agreement.
Europe’s Central Role
The Berlin talks highlight Europe’s growing role as a diplomatic anchor in efforts to end the conflict, particularly as concerns mount over the war’s economic and security consequences across the continent. European leaders are reportedly working to align their positions ahead of upcoming EU-level discussions on military support, sanctions, and the use of frozen Russian assets.
What Comes Next
Negotiators are expected to continue technical discussions in the coming days, with working groups tasked with drafting options on ceasefire guarantees and reconstruction frameworks. While no timetable has been announced for a final agreement, officials stressed that the talks mark a meaningful step toward sustained diplomacy after months of military stalemate.
For now, Berlin remains a testing ground for whether cautious diplomatic momentum can eventually translate into a political settlement — even as the most sensitive territorial questions remain firmly on the table.
