Ukraine talks: Zelenskyy says Russia appears serious about Abu Dhabi summit
Following a call between European leaders and Vladimir Putin, the Ukrainian president indicated that Moscow is prepared to negotiate specific de-escalation measures in November.
By Kaito Sokolov ·
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Tuesday that Russia appears serious about holding a meeting of negotiating teams in Abu Dhabi in November. The Ukrainian president made the comments during a press conference in Kyiv, following recent diplomatic contacts between European officials and the Kremlin.
Zelenskyy explained that his administration recently received a briefing in Oslo regarding the planned trilateral gathering. The event is expected to bring together technical teams from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States. The president noted that his partners wanted to discuss the agenda with him before speaking with Vladimir Putin.
Several European partners contacted the Russian leader on the morning of October 27. They conveyed a common position to Putin and listened to his response. Based on these exchanges, Zelenskyy said the partners reported indications that Moscow is serious about the upcoming meeting in the United Arab Emirates.
The proposed agenda for the Abu Dhabi talks includes initial steps to de-escalate the conflict. Zelenskyy identified security as a top priority for the Ukrainian side. He also listed the goal of ending the war as a central topic. The president added that the technical groups could discuss energy infrastructure and maritime issues.
Further items on the list include the exchange and return of prisoners of war. The teams would also discuss the format for a future leadership-level meeting. Zelenskyy described this as the agenda agreed upon with American partners.
Security guarantees remain a key point of contention. The president said Ukraine has requested guarantees from the United States and Europe. Russia has raised the same demand, stating that it also requires security assurances. Zelenskyy noted that this is the current status of negotiations.
The timing of the trilateral meeting in early November depends on the American side. Earlier this week, Putin spoke by phone with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Zelenskyy observed that Putin spent most of that conversation discussing the initial causes of the conflict rather than methods for ending it.
