Trilateral Talks in Abu Dhabi

The United States, Russia, and Ukraine have convened in Abu Dhabi, UAE, to address territorial disputes, a primary hurdle in reaching an end to nearly four years of conflict. This marks the first three-way meeting since 2022.

The discussions follow an encounter between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and former President Donald Trump in Davos, alongside a meeting involving Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, along with Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Witkoff and Kushner met with Putin prior to heading to the UAE for these negotiations.

As the anniversary of Russia’s invasion approaches, President Trump is urging for an end to the hostilities. Meanwhile, both Zelensky and Putin are exerting pressure to finalize a peace agreement.

Russia has requested Ukraine to relinquish Donbass, while Zelensky has generally resisted the idea of land concessions. Yet, the discussions in Abu Dhabi could suggest a willingness on his part to negotiate, although it remains uncertain. Putin specifically seeks a transfer of 20% of the Donetsk region in Donbas.

Zelensky mentioned the significance of the Donbass issue, stating that the three parties will deliberate on it in the coming days. A close aide hinted that discussions may extend into Saturday.

These meetings occur amid ongoing Russian airstrikes that have severely impacted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving citizens facing harsh winter conditions. Maxim Timchenko, head of Ukraine’s largest private power generation firm, remarked that the situation is nearing a humanitarian disaster.

During a flight, President Trump was asked if this trilateral meeting could eventually lead to a sit-down with himself, Putin, and Zelensky. While he refrained from making assurances, he noted, “We can meet anytime.” He expressed skepticism about Putin’s intentions regarding full occupation of Ukraine, mentioning shifts in willingness to negotiate from both leaders in the past.