Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that the next round of trilateral peace talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States will take place on February 4 and 5 in Abu Dhabi. The talks, initially expected to occur over the weekend, were delayed without a stated reason. Neither the Kremlin nor the U.S. has officially confirmed the new dates.
Core Facts and Developments
Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's readiness for substantive discussions, aiming for a "real and dignified end to the war." The delay comes amid ongoing Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, exacerbating civilian hardships during a harsh winter. The first round of talks in Abu Dhabi last week failed to produce a breakthrough, with territorial disputes remaining a central issue.
Background and Context
The U.S. has been mediating the talks, with President Donald Trump's administration pushing for a peace deal. Russian President Vladimir Putin's envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, held separate, "constructive" meetings with U.S. officials in Florida, though details remain scarce. Russia demands full control of Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, while Ukraine refuses to cede territory, fearing future aggression. The war, now in its fourth year, has seen Russia occupy around 20% of Ukrainian land.
Ongoing Challenges
Ukraine faces severe energy shortages due to Russian strikes, with thousands of homes without heating as temperatures plummet. Zelenskyy has expressed skepticism about Russia's intentions, particularly after Trump claimed Putin agreed to a temporary halt on strikes. The U.S. has accused Russia of escalating attacks during negotiations, targeting critical infrastructure.
Key Perspectives
Ukraine insists on a deal that deters future invasions, while Russia frames its demands as necessary for security. The U.S. positions itself as a neutral broker, though some reports suggest Trump seeks a legacy as a peacemaker. Kremlin officials have praised Trump's efforts, while Ukrainian officials remain cautious about Russian commitments.