The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs said on Monday evening that the upcoming new round of talks among Russia, the United States and Ukraine, scheduled to begin on February 17 in Geneva, will be held behind closed doors.

"Media representatives are not permitted to attend the trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine and the United States," Swiss foreign ministry said in a statement.

According to earlier reports, delegations from Russia, the United States and Ukraine are set to hold their new round of talks in Geneva on February 17 and 18.

Sources said the trilateral talks are expected to focus on key factors in resolving the Ukraine issue, covering military, political and humanitarian aspects. The duration of the talks remains unclear. During the trilateral talk, Russia and Ukraine may also hold bilateral contacts.

Since January this year, representatives of the three countries have held two rounds of talks in Abu Dhabi.