US-brokered peace talks between Ukrainian and Russian officials have begun in Abu Dhabi, according to Rustem Umerov, Ukraine's national security council chief and top negotiator. In a Facebook post, Umerov confirmed the trilateral format involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia, stating that the negotiations aim to achieve a 'dignified and lasting peace' under the directives of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The talks, which are expected to continue for a second day on Thursday, follow a 'massive' drone strike on the southern Ukrainian region of Odesa. The UAE foreign ministry released photographs showing representatives from the US, Russia, and Ukraine seated around a U-shaped table, with American special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner among the US delegation.
Key sticking points in the negotiations include Russia's demand for Ukraine to cede territory it still controls and security guarantees for Ukraine against future Russian attacks. The first round of trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi took place on 23-24 January.
Meanwhile, attacks have continued in Ukraine, with officials reporting a 'massive' drone strike in Odesa. The Kremlin confirmed ongoing technical discussions with France after President Emmanuel Macron suggested re-engaging with Vladimir Putin, though no current dialogue between the two leaders was indicated.
