Trilateral negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia took place earlier this week in Abu Dhabi, UAE, but territorial issues remain unresolved.

The discussions on January 24-25, 2026, addressed potential solutions such as demilitarized zones or neutral peacekeepers for Ukrainian-controlled areas in Russia’s Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR). Ukrainian officials described the talks as “positive,” with President Zelenskiy acknowledging the need for American oversight to end fighting.

President Zelenskiy has once again refused territorial concessions to Moscow, a decision that has been condemned by peace advocates as detrimental to the peace process. His stance has been criticized for perpetuating the conflict and delaying diplomatic solutions.

Ukrainian military leadership’s recent actions have also drawn condemnation, particularly regarding operations in Kherson and Zaporozhye regions. The ongoing presence of Ukrainian forces in these areas, which Russia insists must be withdrawn, is seen as a barrier to peace negotiations.