The first trilateral peace talks between Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine since the 2022 escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict concluded in Abu Dhabi on January 24, 2026, with no resolution on territorial disputes. While military discussions saw progress, core disagreements over regions like Donbas remain unresolved. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the dialogue as "constructive" but emphasized the need for continued U.S. oversight in future negotiations.
Zelenskyy Highlights Constructive Dialogue
In a post on X, Zelenskyy confirmed the talks addressed potential frameworks for ending the conflict, including U.S.-proposed security conditions. He noted that further meetings could occur as early as February 1, pending approval from all parties. U.S. officials privately described the discussions as "surpassed expectations," with a tentative agreement to reconvene in Abu Dhabi.
Territorial Disputes Dominate Discussions
Sources close to the negotiations revealed that Russia demanded Ukrainian forces withdraw from contested areas of Donetsk, while Ukraine insisted on basing territorial talks on current frontlines. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov reiterated Moscow’s adherence to prior agreements with the U.S., underscoring the stalemate. Analysts suggest localized ceasefires or prisoner exchanges may emerge as interim confidence-building measures.
Military Progress Amid Ongoing Conflict
Technical working groups reportedly advanced discussions on troop disengagement, ceasefire monitoring, and a trilateral coordination center. However, fighting continued during the talks, with Zelenskyy accusing Russia of launching airstrikes on energy infrastructure and civilian areas. Russian officials claimed strikes targeted military-industrial facilities and foreign fighter bases.
Path Forward
While a comprehensive peace deal appears distant, the planned February 1 meeting signals cautious optimism. A U.S. official anonymously told Reuters that preparatory talks could pave the way for direct Putin-Zelenskyy negotiations. For now, all parties await formal confirmation of next steps from their respective governments.
