Peace talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States began on January 23, 2026, in Abu Dhabi to try to end the nearly four‑year war. These are the first high‑level talks involving all three countries together. The discussions follow earlier meetings in Davos and Moscow.
The main issue in the talks is territory in eastern Ukraine, particularly the Donbas region. Russia wants Ukraine to pull its troops out of areas in Donetsk and Luhansk that are still under Ukrainian control. Moscow says this is necessary for any peace deal. Ukraine has refused to give up land, saying it has fought hard to defend it and that giving it up would weaken the country’s security.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said resolving the Donbas question is the most important part of the talks. He also warned that it is too early to say if the negotiations will succeed. A White House official called the first day “productive” and said the talks would continue the next day.
The US team includes special envoy Steve Witkoff, adviser Jared Kushner, and military officials. Russia’s team is led by Admiral Igor Kostyukov, while Ukraine’s team is headed by Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council.
The talks are happening while fighting continues in Ukraine. Russian attacks on cities have killed and injured civilians in the days around the meetings. On January 24, hundreds of Russian drones and missiles hit infrastructure and residential areas. Ukrainian officials say these attacks aim to weaken the peace process.
Despite US efforts, President Donald Trump saying both sides want a deal, and the willingness of leaders to talk, the sides remain far apart. Territory, security guarantees, and borders are the main sticking points. Both Kyiv and Moscow show little sign of compromise, making it unclear if a ceasefire or lasting peace agreement can be reached.
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