The United States says Russia and Ukraine have taken a “big step” after agreeing to hold a second round of direct, US-mediated peace talks next weekend, following two days of discussions in Abu Dhabi. The next meeting is scheduled for February 1, according to a US official, who said the talks marked significant progress toward defining the details needed to end the war.
The meeting was the first face-to-face engagement between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators since talks in Istanbul last summer, which only produced prisoner exchange agreements. It was also the first direct discussion of a peace plan promoted by US President Donald Trump to end the nearly four-year conflict.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the talks were constructive and covered many issues, with a focus on possible parameters for ending the war. However, Kyiv accused Moscow of undermining the negotiations after Russian drones and missiles struck Ukrainian cities, cutting electricity and heating to millions during sub-zero temperatures.
AFP journalists reported explosions lighting up the night sky over Kyiv as residents rushed for shelter. Many residents expressed little hope that the talks would lead to a breakthrough, citing continued attacks and repeated failed negotiations.
The United Arab Emirates, which hosted the talks involving senior military officials from both sides, described the atmosphere as constructive and positive. Discussions reportedly centred on unresolved elements of the US peace framework and confidence-building measures.
Territory in the eastern Donbas region remains the main sticking point. Russia continues to demand Ukraine’s withdrawal from the area, calling it a key condition for peace, while Kyiv has firmly rejected the demand.
Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine traded accusations of deadly drone attacks, and Ukraine’s energy infrastructure suffered further damage, leaving large parts of Kyiv and nearby regions without electricity and heating. The European Union accused Moscow of deliberately targeting civilians by attacking energy facilities.
Despite renewed diplomatic momentum, both sides remain deeply divided, particularly over territorial control, with Moscow warning it would seek full control of eastern Ukraine by force if negotiations fail.
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