Ukraine and Russia meet in Abu Dhabi
Three-day talks begin with US mediation, focusing on ending hostilities without immediate breakthroughs.
By Arjun Weber ·
Direct negotiations between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States have commenced in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. These talks, scheduled for November 10 and 11, represent the first trilateral session aimed at ending the war. The gathering follows preliminary bilateral discussions involving European partners and American special envoys.
The Ukrainian delegation is led by Rustem Umierov, head of the Foreign Intelligence Service. He confirmed that the agenda centers on central questions regarding the cessation of hostilities. Umierov stated that the team is working according to tasks set by the Ukrainian president. He emphasized that the goal is to bring peace closer through these structured discussions.
Vladimir Medinsky heads the Russian delegation at the venue. Upon opening the session, he expressed hope that the talks would advance efforts toward peace. Medinsky noted that such progress should serve the interests of both Russia and Ukraine. His remarks set the tone for the initial exchange between the three parties in the UAE.
European officials are present in the region during the scheduled negotiations. Security advisers representing the European Commission, the European Council, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are in the UAE. The chief of staff to the NATO Secretary General is also attending. These contacts occurred before the trilateral format began, allowing European partners to align with the Ukrainian side.
Ukraine has named five officials to represent the country in these negotiations. In addition to Umierov, the delegation includes Kyrylo Budanov, head of the President's Office. Serhii Kyslytsia, first deputy head of the President's Office, is also part of the group. Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy chief of the Defence Intelligence, and Davyd Arakhamiia, leader of the Servant of the People parliamentary faction, round out the team.
Ukrainian officials tempered expectations for the initial encounter in Abu Dhabi. They stated they did not anticipate a breakthrough during this first meeting. The focus remains on establishing a framework for future dialogue. A second round of talks is expected to produce further progress if the current session succeeds in narrowing differences.
