Russia–Ukraine–US Trilateral Peace Talks in Abu Dhabi End Without Breakthrough

Abu Dhabi Trilateral Talks Yield No Immediate Progress on Ukraine Conflict

Trilateral peace negotiations involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States concluded in Abu Dhabi without a concrete breakthrough, as sharp disagreements persisted over territorial control in eastern Ukraine. While all three sides agreed to continue dialogue, the unresolved status of the Donbas region remains the principal barrier to a comprehensive peace settlement.

First Trilateral Engagement Since the War Began

The two-day meeting marked the first formal trilateral talks among Russia, Ukraine, and the United States since the outbreak of the conflict. Hosted by the United Arab Emirates , the discussions focused on a US-backed framework aimed at de-escalation and confidence-building. Although negotiators described the talks as “constructive,” no agreement was reached on timelines, sequencing, or mutual concessions. Further rounds of negotiations are expected to take place in the coming week.

Diplomacy Amid Active Hostilities

The talks were overshadowed by fresh Russian drone and missile strikes on Kyiv , carried out just hours before their conclusion. The attacks killed at least one civilian, injured several others, and damaged critical power infrastructure, leaving nearly 1.2 million properties without electricity and thousands without heating during sub-zero temperatures. The strikes highlighted the difficulty of pursuing diplomacy while large-scale military operations continue.

Russia’s Position on Eastern Ukraine

During the negotiations, Russia reiterated its demand that Ukraine withdraw forces from eastern territories that Moscow claims to have annexed but does not fully control. Russian negotiators reportedly framed this condition as non-negotiable for any peace agreement. The Donbas region , comprising Donetsk and Luhansk , holds strategic importance due to its mineral wealth, industrial capacity, and key transport routes.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Donbas refers to the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of eastern Ukraine

• The UAE has increasingly emerged as a neutral venue for international mediation

• The United States is acting as a mediator rather than a direct party to the conflict

• Territorial integrity is a core principle of international law under the UN Charter

Ukraine’s Firm Stand on Sovereignty

Ukraine has firmly rejected any proposal involving territorial concessions. President Volodymyr Zelensky , speaking earlier at the World Economic Forum in Davos , said that a potential deal was “nearly ready” but stressed that Ukraine’s sovereignty over Donbas is non-negotiable . With Moscow maintaining its demands and fighting continuing on the ground, the Abu Dhabi talks ended without resolving the conflict’s most contentious issue.

Outlook for the Peace Process

While the agreement to continue negotiations keeps diplomatic channels open, the lack of movement on territorial questions suggests that substantive progress remains elusive . The Abu Dhabi talks underscore both the importance of sustained dialogue and the deep structural challenges in reconciling positions shaped by sovereignty, security, and international law.