U.S. and Russian representatives held talks in Geneva on Monday, January 10, on so-called "security guarantees" proposed by the Russian side. The talks lasted nearly eight hours.

After the talks, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov briefed journalists. According to RBC-Ukraine, the main statements made by the Russian side:

Russia told the U.S. it has no plans to attack Ukraine;

Russia demands that NATO abandon the countries that joined the Alliance after 1997;

Russia wants "ironclad guarantees" that Ukraine and Georgia will not end up in NATO;

Russia has seen no progress on the issue of NATO's refusal to expand eastward.

Meanwhile, U.S. negotiator Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman also briefed reporters after her discussion with Russia in Geneva. Key statements:

  The U.S. is waiting for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine's borders, as this would signal a de-escalation of the situation;

The U.S. is ready to discuss missile deployment and military exercises in Europe with Russia, but on conditions of reciprocity;

The U.S. believes that progress is possible, but for that Russia must begin de-escalation;

The U.S. will not allow Russia to close NATO's doors to other countries;

The U.S. is prepared to impose sanctions on key Russian institutions in the event of an attack on Ukraine;

U.S. will continue consultations with allies and partners.