Negotiators representing Russia, Ukraine, and the United States are convening for trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi as efforts to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine continue. This meeting follows recent discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump engaged in separate meetings.
Progress and Obstacles
President Zelenskyy stated on Thursday that a draft peace deal is “nearly, nearly ready.” He described a meeting with President Trump as positive, but acknowledged that significant challenges remain in finalizing an agreement, characterizing the final stage of negotiations as “very difficult.”
Russia has indicated that a lasting peace will depend on addressing territorial issues. This warning came after a late-night meeting with US envoys that extended into early Friday morning. The specifics of those territorial issues were not detailed.
Potential Next Steps
The trilateral meeting in Abu Dhabi could lead to further refinement of the draft deal mentioned by President Zelenskyy. However, given Russia’s insistence on resolving territorial issues, a breakthrough is not guaranteed. It is possible that further negotiations will be required, or that the talks could stall if a compromise cannot be reached.
Should the negotiations prove successful, analysts expect a period of implementation and monitoring to ensure compliance with the terms of any agreement. Conversely, if talks fail, the conflict is likely to continue, potentially with renewed intensity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the meeting in Abu Dhabi?
The meeting in Abu Dhabi is intended to continue negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States to find a path towards ending the war in Ukraine.
What did President Zelenskyy say about the draft deal?
President Zelenskyy stated that a draft deal was “nearly, nearly ready” as of Thursday, January 23, 2026.
What is Russia’s position on a durable peace?
Russia has warned that a durable peace will not be possible without resolving territorial issues.
What factors do you believe will be most critical in determining the success or failure of these negotiations?
