The agreement, known as the Kyiv Treaty, was signed on Saturday, 17 October, with representatives of both countries participating in a ceremony attended by the United Nations Secretariat.
In a statement, the UN Secretary-General confirmed that the treaty provided for Crimea to be returned to Ukraine, describing the agreement as an example of diplomacy succeeding over armed confrontation.
However, information provided separately to BBC News suggests that the territorial arrangements may be more complicated than the UN’s initial announcement indicated.
United Nations welcomes diplomatic breakthrough
President of Russia and Ukraine pictured alongside the United Nations Secretary-General during the signing of the Kyiv Treaty on 17 October 2026, following negotiations over the future of Crimea.
The UN Secretary-General welcomed the signing of the agreement, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to territorial integrity and peaceful negotiations.
In a statement issued by the Executive Office of the Secretary-General, the Secretariat said:
“The UN actively works towards upholding territorial integrity, and we are happy to see this being resolved by way of diplomacy instead of war, with the consent of both parties.”
The Secretariat also confirmed that the agreement would be formally deposited with the United Nations once received.
What happens next?
Attention is now expected to turn towards the implementation of the treaty, including clarification of territorial boundaries and the responsibilities of both governments.
The signing nevertheless represents a significant diplomatic development in relations between Russia and Ukraine within the international community.
BBC News will continue to follow developments surrounding the Kyiv Treaty.
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