Abu Dhabi, UAE – Trilateral talks between the United States, Russia, and Ukraine commenced today in Abu Dhabi, according to the Emirati Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussions aim to facilitate a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Moscow and Kyiv.
While Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his territorial demands, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed optimism that the negotiations could pave the way for an end to the nearly four-year-long war. These represent the first publicly acknowledged direct negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv regarding a plan spearheaded by US President Donald Trump to resolve the conflict.
A statement released by the UAE Foreign Ministry confirmed that “the talks began today in Abu Dhabi and are scheduled to continue for two days, as part of efforts to promote dialogue and find political solutions to the crisis.”
Ahead of the talks, Russia reaffirmed its primary demand: the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, “Russia’s position is absolutely clear: Ukraine and its armed forces must withdraw from the territory of Donbas. They must be withdrawn from there. This is a crucial condition.”
Both sides acknowledge that the issue of eastern Ukrainian territories remains a significant obstacle to achieving a settlement. The war has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties, displaced millions, and caused widespread destruction, particularly in eastern Ukraine.
President Zelenskyy has identified the disputed eastern regions as a key point of contention that will be addressed during the talks. “The meeting today and tomorrow will be trilateral, involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia,” he stated. He welcomed the commencement of the discussions, expressing hope that they “will lead to an end to the war,” while acknowledging that “things may go differently, but it is a step in the right direction.”
Zelenskyy previously announced that a draft agreement was “almost ready,” noting that he and President Trump had reached an understanding on post-war security guarantees. Trump reiterated on Wednesday that Putin and Zelenskyy were close to reaching a deal.
Currently, Russian forces control approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, and President Putin has repeatedly asserted Russia’s claim to these areas.
DZWatch will continue to provide updates as this story develops.
