Abu Dhabi Talks Signal Potential Breakthrough in Russia-Ukraine War
Trilateral negotiations in Abu Dhabi, involving the United States, Russia, and Ukraine, have yielded cautiously optimistic results, raising hopes for a potential meeting between Presidents Putin and Zelenskyy.
Negotiations held in Abu Dhabi on January 23rd and 24th, 2026, represent a significant, albeit preliminary, step toward de-escalation in the ongoing conflict. While details remain scarce, sources indicate a constructive atmosphere and a focus on establishing parameters for ending the war, particularly concerning the contested Donbass region. The talks, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, mark the first trilateral meeting in a considerable period, signaling a renewed willingness to engage in direct dialogue.
High-Level Delegations Converge in Abu Dhabi
Ukraine’s delegation was led by Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, while the United States was represented by Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff, Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Secretary of the Army and Special Envoy for Ukraine Dan Driscoll. The Russian delegation, exclusively comprised of Ministry of Defense representatives, was headed by Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff (GRU). Photographic evidence identified two additional members of the Russian delegation: Alexander Zorin, first deputy chief of information for the GRU, and translator Ilya Kurepov.
The composition of the delegations underscores the seriousness with which each nation approached the discussions. The inclusion of Kushner, a key figure during the previous administration, suggests a continued commitment from the Trump team to finding a resolution.
A New Approach to Diplomacy: “Lunch is More Important”
The negotiation format itself deviated from traditional diplomatic protocols. According to the Office of the President of Ukraine, the discussions unfolded through a series of informal conversations, including meetings during meals. “Now the partners have such an approach to negotiations that lunch is more important than an official meeting,” a source explained. This unconventional approach, echoed by a TASS source reporting “meetings are being held in different formats,” appears to have fostered a more relaxed and open environment.
A representative of the UAE government, as reported by Reuters, confirmed that Russian and Ukrainian delegates “interacted directly” during the talks. This direct engagement is a crucial development, having been largely absent throughout much of the conflict.
Constructive Dialogue and a Focus on Key Issues
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy described the two-day meetings as “constructive,” noting that participants “managed to discuss” a range of critical issues. “This is the first such format in quite a long time – two-day trilateral meetings,” Zelenskyy stated after receiving a report from his delegation. The primary focus, Zelenskyy confirmed, was on Donbass, with discussions expanding to encompass “possible parameters for ending the war.”
He also emphasized the importance of American monitoring and control to ensure lasting security. The Ukrainian delegation reported that the meeting was “dedicated to the parameters for ending the Russian war and the further logic of the negotiation process with the aim of moving towards a dignified and lasting peace.”
Next Steps: Continued Dialogue and a Potential Putin-Zelenskyy Meeting
Following the initial round of talks, all parties expressed a willingness to continue the dialogue. Witkoff announced that the United States, alongside Ukraine and Russia, had reached an agreement to continue discussions next week in Abu Dhabi. “President Trump and his entire team are determined to end this war and bring peace,” he stated.
An unnamed US official, cited by Axios, indicated that the next meeting is scheduled for February 1st. Publications journalist Barak Ravid reported, citing a Ukrainian official, that the talks were “positive” and “constructive.” A TASS source also indicated that the negotiations “have results,” with a possibility of continued meetings in the “Troika format.”
US officials described the atmosphere as remarkably collaborative. “Everything was discussed. No one shied away from discussing either side. No question was left unanswered, and we didn’t have to push anyone. Everyone treated each other with respect, because people were really looking for solutions,” one official stated. Discussions covered a broad spectrum of issues, including Russian territorial claims in Donbass, the situation at the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant, and necessary de-escalation measures.
The progress made culminated in a joint lunch on the second day of negotiations, described by one US official as a moment where “everyone almost looked like friends.” This sentiment underscores the potential for a shift in dynamics.
According to Axios, officials believe the parties are “very close to a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy.” Should further progress be made at the next trilateral meeting, a potential summit between the two leaders in Moscow or Kyiv could be arranged.
