Russia–Ukraine Conflict: A Clear-Eyed Timeline & Diplomatic Overview
1. How We Got Here
On 24 February 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, citing its aim to "denazify" and secure its borders — claims widely seen by the West as justifications for unlawful aggression.
Days later, Ukrainian and Russian delegations met in Belarus (28 Feb 2022) and held early talks in Turkey and on the Belarus–Ukraine border, but they yielded no agreement beyond some humanitarian corridors.
2. Diplomatic Lulls Amid Violence
As intense combat continued, diplomatic progress stagnated. Peace efforts were minimal, largely overshadowed by ongoing conflict and shifting geopolitical priorities.
3. A Renewed Push in 2025
With Donald Trump’s return to the White House in early 2025, a diplomatic push began. A key development was a phone call on 12 February 2025 between Trump and Putin, which Trump described as “highly productive”; he announced immediate talks to end the war.
This snowballed into a February summit in Riyadh, where U.S. and Russian representatives met—but Ukraine and Europe were not invited, leading to criticism.
Later, the London Summit on 2 March 2025, led by U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, sought to build a “coalition of the willing” to bolster Ukraine’s bargaining position via security guarantees and support.
4. A Rocky Road to Negotiation
Diplomatic shuttles continued in March—both sides met separately in Jeddah and through intermediaries, but the talks failed to produce a true ceasefire. Russia paused attacks on energy targets; Ukraine held firm but little else changed.
U.S. policy shifted toward realpolitik — with support continued, but NATO membership declared "unrealistic," and peace talks emphasized realistic aims over ideal outcomes.
5. Today’s Peace Push & the Alaska Summit
As of August 2025, a Trump–Putin summit in Alaska is on the table to broker a peace deal — potentially including territorial swaps. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has unequivocally rejected any cession of land, citing constitutional prohibition.
European leaders insist Ukraine must lead or be included in any negotiations, and any deal must guarantee territorial integrity and lasting security.
Key Points to Keep in Mind
| Perspective | Key Arguments |
|---|---|
| Ukraine’s Position | Peace must involve Ukrainian sovereignty; no territory lost; international support & security guarantees needed. |
| Russia’s Demands | Ceasefire in exchange for territory; halt NATO expansion. |
| U.S. Role | Advocating negotiation—even exploring talks that sideline Ukrainian leadership; proposing ceasefire, but with concessions. |
| European View | Peace without Ukraine is unacceptable; any agreement must involve Kyiv and maintain justice and peace. |
Bottom Line
This conflict isn't black or white. Russia’s invasion is widely condemned, but the shifting geopolitical strategies—from quick diplomacy to pressuring sanctions and backroom talks—reflect a murky, high-stakes power play. If peace is possible, it must center on Ukraine’s right to self-determination, fair terms, and broad international participation.