UAE hosted ‘productive’ Russia-Ukraine talks: Foreign minister

ISTANBUL

Trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine and the US in Abu Dhabi resulted in "productive and constructive discussions” amid growing momentum for a political settlement to the Russia-Ukraine war, the United Arab Emirates' foreign minister said Thursday.

In a statement, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the commencement of the second round of trilateral negotiations sends "positive messages" demonstrating the parties' seriousness about diplomatic efforts to end humanitarian suffering caused by a conflict, which is now in its fourth year.

“The two rounds of talks held in Abu Dhabi resulted in productive and constructive discussions that highlighted areas of common ground that can serve as a foundation for further progress,” he said.

"The UAE remains committed to providing a supportive environment for dialogue that narrows divergences and advances peaceful solutions," Sheikh Abdullah added.

The first round of trilateral talks was held in Abu Dhabi on Jan. 23-24, with the second round taking place Feb. 4-5.

Earlier Thursday, US special envoy Steve Witkoff also called the discussions “constructive,” saying they were "focused on how to create the conditions for a durable peace."

He said the delegations reached an agreement whereby Russia and Ukraine will each release 157 prisoners of war.

"This is the first exchange in the last five months," he added.

Russia and Ukraine last conducted a prisoner exchange on Oct. 2, 2025 as part of deals reached in the Turkish metropolis of Istanbul, which hosted three rounds of direct peace talks earlier that year.

The US and Russia also agreed to establish a military-to-military dialogue to be led by General Alexus Grynkewich, commander of US European Command, Witkoff said.

Over the two-day meeting, delegations held wide-ranging discussions on unresolved issues, including potential mechanisms to implement a ceasefire and monitor a halt to military activities, the envoy said.

"The delegations agreed to report back to their respective capitals and to continue trilateral discussions in the coming weeks," he stressed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Thursday that a new meeting of negotiating teams will be held in the near future as part of efforts to end the war.