In the United Arab Emirates, a significant diplomatic chapter is unfolding as the Ukrainian delegation, led by Rustem Umerov, head of the Foreign Intelligence Service, has commenced a series of pivotal meetings. The initial phase involves coordination with key Western allies—representatives from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, NATO, the European Commission, and US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. These preparatory discussions mark the first step in what could be a critical diplomatic process to address the ongoing conflict.
The groundwork being laid in Abu Dhabi is preparation for trilateral negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia scheduled for November 10-11. This represents the first direct talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations mediated by the US since February 2026. As Umerov stated, "We are coordinating positions and steps before the next stage of negotiations. Next is the trilateral format with the participation of Ukraine, the US, and Russia."
Ukraine has articulated its priorities for these negotiations with remarkable clarity. The cessation of hostilities stands as the foremost objective, followed by securing reliable post-war security guarantees, economic recovery and development of the country, and implementing humanitarian steps. "Our key priorities are the cessation of hostilities, reliable post-war security guarantees, economic recovery and development of Ukraine, as well as humanitarian steps," Umerov emphasized, underscoring the comprehensive nature of Ukraine's diplomatic approach.
The Russian delegation has also headed to the venue of the trilateral negotiations.
As one source in the negotiating group succinctly noted, "We are going to the negotiations." This frank acknowledgment reflects the complex nature of the discussions ahead. Ukrainian intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov similarly acknowledged the challenges, stating, "It's a long road, there is a lot of difficult work ahead, but the main thing is that concrete results are needed."
The upcoming negotiations will focus on forming a new continental security system, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio noting that the main topic is forming a post-war system and security guarantees. The Russian delegation has also headed to the venue of the trilateral negotiations.
While no breakthrough is expected in the first round of talks with Russia, Ukrainian officials express hope that progress can be made in subsequent rounds. As Umerov noted, "We are working to maximize progress on these issues and bring peace closer." The diplomatic efforts in Abu Dhabi represent a significant step in the long journey toward resolving the conflict, though the road ahead remains challenging and uncertain.
As the Russian delegation has also arrived in Abu Dhabi for the trilateral talks, the stage is set for what could be a pivotal moment in the conflict. The negotiations scheduled for November 10-11 represent a rare instance of direct diplomatic engagement between all parties involved. While the challenges are substantial, the very fact that these talks are occurring suggests a recognition among all sides that a diplomatic path forward, however difficult, must be pursued.
