Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced progress in the first trilateral negotiations involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, held in Abu Dhabi. The discussions, which took place on January 26-27, 2024, marked a significant moment as it was the first time representatives from all three nations convened since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022. Although the path to peace remains uncertain, Zelensky emphasized the constructive nature of the conversations, stating that the central topic was the potential framework for ending the war.
The talks come against a backdrop of escalating violence, with Russia launching its largest aerial assault on Ukraine this year. Despite the absence of a breakthrough during the two-day discussions, there was a palpable sense of hope for progress. Zelensky remarked, “Provided there is readiness to move forward – and Ukraine is ready – further meetings will take place, potentially as early as next week.” A follow-up session is scheduled to commence in Abu Dhabi on February 1, 2024.
Steve Witkoff, the special envoy for Donald Trump, characterized the meetings as “very constructive” and confirmed that plans were in place to continue negotiations next week. Witkoff expressed the commitment of the Trump administration to facilitate peace in the ongoing conflict.
The discussions also touched on a crucial document concerning security guarantees for Ukraine, which Zelensky stated is “100% ready.” This document is critical for Ukraine’s stability post-conflict and is expected to be ratified by both the US Congress and the Ukrainian parliament. Zelensky articulated, “For us, security guarantees are primarily bilateral security guarantees with the US.”
While the US and Ukrainian negotiators highlighted progress, contentious issues surrounding territorial claims emerged as significant roadblocks. Control over the Donbas region, which comprises the coal-rich areas of Donetsk and Luhansk, remains a core demand of Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Ukraine’s withdrawal from Donbas is a fundamental condition for any peace agreement.
In light of the ongoing military activity, with Russian strikes targeting key Ukrainian cities including Kyiv and Kharkiv, Zelensky condemned these actions as attempts to undermine the diplomatic process. He stated that Russia is using the peace negotiations as a smokescreen to consolidate control over eastern Ukraine, insisting, “We are fighting for our country – for what is ours.”
Despite the US urging Ukraine to consider territorial concessions as a means to achieve peace, Zelensky acknowledged the difficulty of reconciling fundamentally opposing positions. He noted that compromise would be essential, stating, “These are the first steps towards finding that very compromise.”
The ongoing conflict has led to significant human and infrastructural costs in Ukraine, with reports of casualties from recent missile attacks. The mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, confirmed that at least one person died and several others were injured due to falling debris from the strikes.
As the trilateral talks continue, the international community is watching closely, hoping for a diplomatic resolution that addresses the complex issues at hand while ensuring the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
