Ukraine and Russia Begin Second Round of U.S.-Mediated Peace Talks in Abu Dhabi

Post by : Saif Nasser

Ukrainian and Russian negotiators began a second round of U.S.-mediated peace talks in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, seeking ways to end Europe’s largest war since World War Two. The meetings, scheduled over two days, are aimed at addressing key points of conflict, including territorial disputes and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Ukraine’s lead negotiator, Rustem Umerov, said the talks started in a trilateral format, including Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. He added that smaller group sessions would focus on specific issues before rejoining for joint discussions to coordinate positions.

Despite several rounds of talks over the past year, major disagreements remain. Russia is demanding that Ukraine withdraw its troops from the eastern Donetsk region, including heavily fortified cities that form Ukraine’s main defense line. Moscow sees this as a precondition for any deal. Ukraine, on the other hand, insists that the conflict should be frozen along the current front line and refuses any unilateral pullback of forces.

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe’s largest, is another sensitive topic. Located in a Russian-occupied area, it has been a point of concern for both sides and the international community due to the risks associated with military activity near a nuclear facility.

Russia currently controls about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea and parts of the eastern Donbas region taken before the 2022 invasion. Military analysts say Russian forces have captured about 1.5% more territory since early 2024. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to defend its lands and maintain the support of its population, most of whom oppose handing any territory to Russia.

The first round of talks took place last month in the United Arab Emirates and marked the first direct public negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv. However, Kyiv residents remain skeptical about the potential for a breakthrough. “Let’s hope that it will change something, of course. But I don’t believe it will change anything now. We will not give in, and they will not give in either,” said Serhii, a taxi driver in Kyiv.

The U.S., which has actively facilitated these discussions, hopes that the new round of talks will bring progress, even if small, toward easing tensions and protecting civilians. Both sides face immense pressure to maintain a fragile balance between military action and diplomatic negotiation.

As the meetings continue in Abu Dhabi, the world watches closely. Any breakthrough could provide hope for a peaceful resolution, while continued stalemate could prolong one of Europe’s deadliest conflicts in recent history.