The Monocle Daily Geneva hosts talks on Ukraine-Russia and Iran. Plus: will Europe increase defence spending?
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Feb 17, 2026 
David Brennan, ABC reporter offering on‑the‑ground political reporting, and Alex von Tunzelmann, historian and author, discuss high‑stakes Geneva talks on Ukraine‑Russia and Iran. They debate prospects for breakthroughs and what could end the Ukraine war. They also examine Europe's defence spending pressures and national political constraints. Plus a segment on the Vatican’s new AI translation for Mass.
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Three Pillars Anchor Iran's Position
- US negotiators face repeated Iranian firm stances on enrichment, missiles and proxies that underpin regime security.
- David Brennan warned these three pillars are central to Iran and unlikely to be surrendered easily.
Putin Is The Key Obstacle
- Meeting between Ukraine and Russia in Geneva marks a necessary step but far from decisive.
- David Brennan emphasised Putin remains the principal obstacle to a long-term deal.
Leadership Change As The Likeliest End
- Both panelists saw few realistic routes to peace other than leadership change or catastrophic fatigue.
- Alex von Tunzelmann relayed an exile's blunt assessment that Putin's removal by health or exit might be the only plausible end.