UAE hosts US-Russia-Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi to push for peace

Trilateral talks aimed at finding a political solution to the war in Ukraine concluded in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, bringing together representatives from the United States, Russia and Ukraine.

The discussions, held over two days, were part of ongoing efforts to revive dialogue and explore pathways toward de-escalation, according to Gulf News.

The meeting saw senior envoys and officials from all three countries, including US presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Russian General Staff official Igor Kostyukov, and Ukrainian representatives Kyrylo Budanov and Rustem Umerov. The talks were intended to build momentum for further negotiations and potential agreements.

UAE’s growing role in peace diplomacy

By hosting the talks, the UAE reinforced its emerging role as a key diplomatic mediator in the Ukraine crisis. The country has positioned itself as a bridge-builder, using its influence to support humanitarian initiatives and encourage dialogue between conflicting parties.

Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the talks underscores the UAE’s broader strategy of preventive diplomacy, which focuses on de-escalation, confidence-building, and continuous communication. The city has increasingly become a global hub for sensitive negotiations, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to supporting international stability and peace.

“A Lot Was Discussed”: Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the talks, brokered by the United States, were “constructive” and covered “a lot” of ground. He indicated that, if all parties remain willing, further meetings could take place as soon as next week.

“A lot was discussed, and it is important that the conversations were constructive,” Zelensky said on social media after the talks concluded. “Provided there is readiness to move forward — and Ukraine is ready — further meetings will take place, potentially as early as next week.”

A broader Emirati vision

The UAE’s involvement in Ukraine reflects a wider foreign policy approach that prioritises humanitarian action alongside diplomacy. By emphasising respect for state sovereignty and consensus-based solutions, the UAE has strengthened its credibility as a neutral actor capable of facilitating complex negotiations.

The UAE has previously mediated several humanitarian initiatives between Moscow and Kyiv, including 17 prisoner exchange operations that have freed 4,641 detainees since the crisis began. The country has also launched a humanitarian air bridge delivering food, medical supplies, power generators, ambulances, and other essential aid to Ukraine.

The UAE’s support extends to neighboring countries hosting Ukrainian refugees, including Poland, Moldova and Bulgaria, where it has provided relief assistance and logistical support.

With additional input from AFP