Trilateral talks between the United States, Russia, and Ukraine are underway in Abu Dhabi. According to the United Arab Emirates’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it is the hope of Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan that the “discussions would contribute to tangible steps toward ending a crisis that has persisted for nearly four years and resulted in immense humanitarian suffering.”
“His Highness affirmed that hosting these talks reflects the international community’s confidence in the UAE’s leading role and its steadfast approach to supporting peace and transforming challenges into meaningful opportunities for the peoples of both countries and the wider region,” the press release said. “His Highness also commended the efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump in facilitating these talks, reinforcing stability, and advancing the political track.”
Yuri Ushakov, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, confirmed the discussions,” Russian news agency TASS reported. “It has been agreed that the first meeting of the trilateral working group on security issues will take place today, that is, on Friday, January 23, in Abu Dhabi,” Ushakov stated.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, as per CBS News, “Russia’s position is well known: Ukraine and its armed forces must leave the Donbas. They must be withdrawn.” Peskov added that the demand is a “very important condition.”
“The issue of Donbas is key,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “It will be discussed, and the modalities as seen by the three sides will be addressed in Abu Dhabi today and tomorrow.”
Reports indicate that U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and President Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, are involved in the discussions.
