For the first time since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, delegations from the United States, Ukraine and Russia are set to hold trilateral talks aimed at exploring a possible path toward ending the war.
The landmark meeting will take place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, over two days, marking a rare moment where all three parties are involved in the same diplomatic format.
Why These Talks Matter
This is the first known three-way negotiating forum including Washington, Kyiv and Moscow since the war began — a significant shift from previous bilateral or indirect contacts.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the talks during the World Economic Forum in Davos, saying peace-related documents are “nearly ready,” but warned that major issues remain unresolved.
Cautious Optimism — But No Breakthrough Yet
While US officials say negotiations are “down to one major issue,” both Ukraine and Russia have signaled that compromise will be difficult.
Zelenskyy said Russia must show genuine willingness to compromise, while the Kremlin has reiterated long-standing demands that Kyiv considers unacceptable.
Fighting continues on the ground, with ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks across Ukraine — underscoring how fragile and uncertain the diplomatic process remains.
Key Issues on the Table
According to multiple officials and diplomats, the main sticking points include:
- Territorial control — Russia is demanding Ukraine cede remaining parts of regions Moscow claims to have annexed
- Security guarantees for Ukraine after the war
- Ukraine’s NATO aspirations, which Russia opposes
- The future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control
- Post-war economic reconstruction and use of frozen Russian assets
Who Is Involved
- The US delegation is led by Trump administration envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner
- Russia is represented by senior intelligence and security officials
- Ukraine is sending top military and diplomatic representatives
What Happens Next
The Abu Dhabi talks are expected to focus on technical and security-level discussions, not a final peace agreement. However, diplomats say the format itself is a major diplomatic step that could pave the way for higher-level negotiations later.