Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described the recent trilateral talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States as “constructive.” These discussions took place in the United Arab Emirates and could lead to further meetings as early as next week. The talks, which continued for a second day on Saturday, focused on a range of issues deemed critical for potential future negotiations.
Military representatives from the three nations identified specific topics for discussion, although the delegations returned to their accommodations without plans to reconvene on Saturday. According to the Russian state news agency TASS, sources close to the negotiations indicated that both sides were generally satisfied with the progress made thus far.
The ongoing negotiations aim to find a resolution to the conflict initiated by Russian President Vladimir Putin nearly four years ago, in February 2022. Russia’s demands include Ukraine ceding territory, abandoning aspirations to join the NATO military alliance, and reducing its military capabilities. Ukraine, however, has firmly rejected any proposals that would result in further territorial loss.
As a mediator, the United States is working to encourage both parties to reach a compromise. Information leaked from the talks suggests that there is a sense of progress, although specific results are expected to be announced by negotiators in their respective countries. A member of the Russian delegation stated, “There are results, but these will be announced by those responsible at home,” as reported by TASS.
Zelenskiy also assessed the negotiations positively. Political observer Barak Ravid reported on X that Ukraine’s view of the discussions was “positive” and “constructive.” Despite this diplomatic progress, Zelenskiy highlighted the ongoing violence in Ukraine, noting that recent Russian attacks have been among the heaviest in weeks.
“Russia launched a massive attack on our regions during the night, firing 370 combat drones and 21 missiles of various types,” Zelenskiy wrote on social media. He emphasized the need for immediate support in air defense systems, stating, “Every such Russian strike on our energy infrastructure proves that there must be no delays in supplying air defenses.” He further asserted that “no blind eye can be turned to these strikes.”
As the conflict continues, the international community watches closely, hoping that these diplomatic efforts will pave the way for a ceasefire and a resolution to the prolonged war in Ukraine.
