Russia, Ukraine and the United States concluded two days of peace talks in Abu Dhabi with agreement on a large-scale prisoner exchange and what officials described as progress on some issues, while negotiations on territory, security guarantees and a broader peace settlement will continue.
The discussions were the first direct trilateral talks since February and focused on humanitarian measures, territorial disputes and future European security.
US envoy Jared Kushner described the talks as a constructive first step but said significant mistrust remains between the parties. Russian negotiator Vladimir Medinsky said the sides had moved closer on some issues, while reiterating Moscow’s position on territory. Ukrainian officials welcomed the dialogue but maintained that European partners should participate in future negotiations. Russia opposed direct European involvement in the current process.
The parties remain divided over territorial control, security guarantees and the future European security architecture. US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are expected to hold separate meetings with President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as diplomatic efforts continue, while fighting on the ground has continued despite the negotiations.