According to official data
A trilateral round of talks between Ukraine, the United States and Russia is scheduled for 17–18 February in Geneva. This was confirmed by the presidential communications adviser Dmytro Lytvyn, who emphasized that details will be provided by the head of the Ukrainian negotiating delegation — Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov.
"As of today, the Ukrainian delegation is preparing [for the next meeting]"
— Dmytro Lytvyn, Adviser to the President of Ukraine for Communications
Who will represent Russia
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Russian delegation will be led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky. Medinsky previously represented Russia at the Istanbul rounds in 2022 and 2025 — his appointment now repeats a trend of delegating political figures instead of purely military leaders.
"The Russian delegation will be headed by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky"
— Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for the President of the Russian Federation
Context: a signal or a tactical change?
At the previous trilateral meetings in 2026 Russia was led by Admiral Igor Kostyukov — head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff. The shift from a representative of military intelligence to a political adviser could indicate two basic scenarios: an attempt to change the tone of the talks and/or to use the platform for informational or political maneuvers.
Analysts note that in past cases involving Medinsky there were statements that bordered on historical identification narratives, which creates additional risks for constructive dialogue from the Ukrainian side.
What matters for Ukraine
Key issues for Kyiv are how to preserve negotiating space for real security and political guarantees, avoid informational traps, and not lose the pace of international support. In practice this means: clear coordination with partners, preparation of technical proposals, and readiness to screen out political manipulations.
Risks and possible scenarios
1) Delay and spectacle: Russia may use the presence of a political representative for informational statements without real proposals. 2) Attempt at normalization: the political format offers a chance to discuss topics previously off-limits — but only if the parties adhere to procedure and control the agenda. 3) Combination: part of the talks may be devoted to technical issues, while another part is used for statements aimed at the domestic audience in Russia.
Conclusion
The appointment of Medinsky is a sign that Moscow is changing its instruments of influence, but not necessarily its intentions. For Ukraine it is important to turn this round into concrete results, not a show: declarations must lead to clear security mechanisms and guarantees. The next move is up to the negotiating group led by Umerov and Western partners — whether they can keep the focus on real security interests and avoid informational traps.
