Ukrainian officials call talks with U.S. and Russia "positive" and "constructive"

Monday, January 26, 2026-Ukrainian leaders described recent trilateral peace talks with the United States and Russia in Abu Dhabi as “positive” and “constructive,” even though no final agreement to end the war has yet been reached. 

Negotiators from all three sides met over two days to discuss potential parameters for ending Russia’s invasion, a rare session involving direct engagement among Kyiv, Washington, and Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the discussions focused on critical issues like security guarantees and next steps, and that the talks were upbeat enough to plan another round soon.

Officials emphasized that constructive engagement rather than breakthrough deals was the immediate outcome, and that further negotiations are scheduled as early as next week to build on the momentum. 

The U.S. role as facilitator brought all parties physically into the same negotiating space for only the first time in years of conflict, and Ukrainian officials highlighted that this direct interaction itself was noteworthy given the long stalemate. Zelenskyy noted that understanding on steps forward was shared and that each delegation agreed to update their capitals on progress.

Despite the positive tone, substantial disagreements remain, especially on territory and long‑term security arrangements. Even as Kyiv welcomes continued dialogue, Russian forces continue military operations on the ground, underscoring that diplomacy is moving ahead amid ongoing violence. Ukrainian officials say that while the constructive start is important, significant work lies ahead to transform cautious optimism into a concrete peace framework acceptable to all sides.