Kremlin Awaits Updates on Ukraine Peace Talks in Geneva

Russia says it wasn't briefed on weekend peace talks between American, Ukrainian, and European officials in Geneva, even as the Kremlin acknowledges changes to a U.S. plan for ending the war that Moscow previously welcomed.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Monday that Moscow "received no information" about the Geneva discussions on Ukraine. But he confirmed the Kremlin knows about "modifications" being made to an American proposal to end the fighting with Kyiv.

The situation highlights the complex diplomatic dance happening as multiple parties try to find a path toward peace. Russia appears to be watching from the sidelines as Western allies and Ukraine coordinate their approach, yet Moscow seems aware of broader diplomatic movements.

Here's what makes this significant: Russia's exclusion from these talks suggests the U.S. and its allies are developing their negotiating position before engaging directly with Moscow. This could mean they're trying to present a unified front, or it might indicate they're still working out internal disagreements about what concessions to offer.

The fact that Russia previously welcomed the American plan but now sees "modifications" could signal that the terms are shifting in ways Moscow might find less appealing. For investors and markets watching for signs of progress toward ending the conflict, this suggests the diplomatic process is still in early stages with significant hurdles ahead.

The Geneva talks represent the latest attempt to find diplomatic solutions to a war that has disrupted global energy markets, grain supplies, and economic stability. But without Russia at the table, any agreements reached would still need Moscow's eventual buy-in to become meaningful.