Ukraine-Russia Talks: Abu Dhabi Negotiations Focus on Donbass Control

Abu Dhabi is hosting trilateral talks between the United States, Ukraine, and Russia, focusing on the contested territory in eastern Ukraine. While the Kremlin has remained tight-lipped about the discussions, a spokesperson for President Putin stated, “No, I have no information, I don’t know” when asked about the start of informal meetings.

Delegation Details and Key Players

Ukraine’s delegation includes Rustem Umerov, Advisor to the President on National Security, Kirylo Budanov, Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate, negotiator David Arakhamia, Chief of Staff Andrii Hnatov, and Diplomatic Advisor Serhii Kyslytsia. Representing Moscow is Igor Kostyukov, Director of the GRU (military intelligence), Kirill Dmitriev, Director of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, and the Kremlin’s envoy for foreign investment.

Uncharted Territory

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consulted with his negotiating team prior to the formal talks. He stated, “I spoke with the head of the delegation, Umerov… The entire team was on speakerphone: we talked with everyone. Everyone understands what needs to be done.” Zelensky acknowledged the talks represent “a format that hasn’t happened for a long time” and that his team has the flexibility to “choose the most suitable formats for negotiations in the field, as we are entering uncharted territory.” He will remain “in constant contact” with the team despite not being present.

Did You Know? The delegation from Moscow includes Kirill Dmitriev, the Director of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, who will meet Witkoff separately.

The primary focus of the discussions will be control of territory in eastern Ukraine, according to President Zelensky.

Expert Insight: The involvement of intelligence officials like Igor Kostyukov from Russia and Kirylo Budanov from Ukraine signals the high stakes and sensitive nature of these discussions. The focus on territorial control suggests a potential attempt to address core security concerns, but the lack of direct confirmation from Moscow introduces a significant degree of uncertainty.

It remains unclear whether the Russian and Ukrainian delegations will meet directly or if discussions will be mediated solely through U.S. negotiators.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is leading the Ukrainian delegation?

Rustem Umerov, Advisor to the President on National Security, is leading the Ukrainian delegation.

What is the main topic of discussion in Abu Dhabi?

The main topic of discussion is control of territory in eastern Ukraine.

Is President Zelensky attending the talks?

President Zelensky is not attending the talks but will remain in constant contact with his team.

How might the format of these negotiations – direct talks versus mediation – influence the potential for a breakthrough?