The march began in Texas in October. The monks' mission has resonated across a beleaguered country — and it appeared especially welcome in a city at the center of political strife and power.

The group, which has prompted skepticism from some U.S. allies, is scheduled to meet on Feb. 19, according to the officials.

Representatives of Ukraine and Russia will meet in Geneva ⁠on ⁠Tuesday and Wednesday for a fresh round ⁠of U.S.-mediated peace talks that the Kremlin says are likely to focus on land, the ​main sticking point.