Historic trilateral negotiations between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States concluded in Abu Dhabi on Saturday without reaching an agreement, though all parties expressed willingness to continue dialogue. The unprecedented two-day summit marked the first direct public discussions between Moscow and Kyiv since Russia launched its full-scale invasion nearly four years ago, with American mediation aimed at ending the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II.
The US delegation was led by special envoy Steve Witkoff and included President Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, and NATO's top general, US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich. Ukraine sent chief negotiator Rustem Umerov and military intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov, while Russia's delegation was headed by Admiral Igor Kostyukov along with economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev.
Discussions centered on what President Zelenskyy described as the possible parameters for ending the war and the security conditions required to achieve lasting peace. The territorial status of the Donbas region emerged as the primary sticking point, with Russia maintaining its demand that Ukraine withdraw from eastern territories Moscow has annexed but not fully captured. Putin continues to insist on Ukraine surrendering the remaining 20 percent of Donetsk it still controls.
The United Arab Emirates government described the talks as constructive and positive, noting the rare direct engagement between the warring parties. Both the Kremlin and the White House characterized the discussions as frank and productive, while Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Moscow of acting cynically by launching attacks during negotiations.
During the summit, Russia launched 375 drones and 21 missiles targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, knocking out power and heat for large parts of Kyiv. At least one person was killed and over 30 were injured in the attacks, which opposition parliamentarian Kira Rudik characterized as no coincidence given Putin's historical pattern of such tactics during diplomatic efforts.
Despite the lack of concrete agreements, all parties have committed to further talks, with the next round potentially scheduled as early as February 1 in the UAE. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of American monitoring and oversight throughout any peace process, while stating that comprehensive proposals for ending the conflict are nearly ready.
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