Ukraine’s president described Tuesday’s first round as constructive, while Washington called it productive. Negotiations resume this morning, with prisoner exchanges and security guarantees among the issues; no peace agreement has been announced
ABU DHABI: Ukraine, Russia and the United States resumed peace negotiations in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, November 11, as diplomatic efforts continued to end the war. The second day of US-mediated discussions follows Tuesday’s talks, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described as constructive and substantive.
The negotiations mark the first direct discussions between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in nine months. US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are mediating the meetings, which aim to narrow differences over security arrangements, territorial disputes and a possible ceasefire.
Security Guarantees and Ceasefire Proposals
Wednesday’s discussions focus on potential measures to reduce hostilities, including attacks on energy infrastructure and security in the Black Sea. Negotiators are also examining guarantees that could protect Ukraine against future military aggression.
Zelenskyy said the first day’s discussions covered humanitarian issues and possible prisoner exchanges. Both sides are considering proposals involving the exchange of 1,000 or 1,500 prisoners each, although no agreement has been announced.
Territorial disagreements remain a major obstacle. Moscow continues to demand Ukrainian withdrawal from the Donbas region, while Kyiv insists on maintaining its sovereignty and receiving credible security guarantees.
European Representatives Hold Separate Consultations
Ukraine’s chief negotiator, Rustem Umerov, confirmed that the trilateral discussions would be followed by separate consultations with European representatives. European Union and NATO officials are participating in parallel diplomatic meetings, although Russia has opposed their direct involvement in negotiations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described Tuesday’s discussions as productive but acknowledged that reaching an agreement would require further work.
Impact to Expect
The Abu Dhabi talks could advance humanitarian agreements, prisoner exchanges and limited ceasefire arrangements. However, major differences over territory and long-term security remain unresolved. The UAE continues to provide a diplomatic platform for negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
