• Market sentiment is shaky amid concerns over Kyiv–Moscow negotiations.

• While sanctions from the West and Russia's nuclear threat keep traders at the edge, von der Leyen suggests that Ukraine could be included in the bloc.

• While headlines about Russia and Ukraine are still important drivers, traders may be interested in second-tier data.

Silver (XAG/USD), holds on to the week-start gap of near $24.50. This was up 0.90% intraday in Monday's Asian session. As global markets rush to precious metals for risk-safety, the bright metal rose over the past four weeks.

Recent headlines about the Moscow-Kyiv talks at Belarus' border have questioned the risk-averse mood. The market's cautious optimism was challenged by the recent comments of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Recently, the regional leader stated to EU News that Ukraine is wanted by the European Union (EU), while adding "They're one"

The news indicating Belarus' willingness to deny its status as a nuclear nation and Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to put nuclear deterrence forces in high alert are also threatening market sentiment. The silver buyers are also optimistic because of fears about Western sanctions against Moscow, which include the major ones related to the SWIFT payment network and the Russian central bank.

These plays have seen the S&P 500 Futures fall around 2.0%, while the US 10-year Treasury yields show an eight-pip drop near 1.90% as of press time.

The Russia-Ukraine talks headlines will continue to be the focus, while the US trade numbers for January as well as the Chicago Purchasing Managers Index for February might offer further direction for silver prices.

Analyse technique

Silver prices are still firmer within a three-week-old ascending channel, at $24.30 to $25.30 at the earliest. However, the immediate upside barrier to the XAG/USD price rises is January's near $24.70 high.