US Mediates Russia-Ukraine Abu Dhabi Peace Summit: February Talks Aim for Lasting Settlement

Diplomatic momentum accelerates as Russia, Ukraine, and the United States prepare for high-stakes trilateral negotiations in Abu Dhabi on February 4-5. President Zelensky’s confirmation of these talks has generated cautious hope that sustained diplomatic engagement might produce viable pathways toward ending the devastating four-year conflict.
Zelensky expressed Ukraine’s commitment to meaningful dialogue designed to achieve substantive outcomes. His statement emphasized Ukraine’s interest in discussions that bring the country closer to a “real and dignified end to the war,” balancing diplomatic engagement with unwavering determination to protect sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The scheduled talks follow a breakthrough achieved through President Trump’s intervention, which resulted in a temporary cessation of hostilities. Trump’s conversation with Putin led to an agreement pausing military operations, with the Kremlin indicating this pause should extend until February 1 to establish conditions favorable for productive negotiations. This development comes as Ukraine endures extreme winter conditions with temperatures plummeting to -20 degrees Celsius.
Both nations have honored the temporary ceasefire agreement, especially regarding energy infrastructure. Ukrainian authorities confirmed that energy facilities across all regions remained unattacked during the designated period, providing vital relief to civilians struggling with systematic targeting of critical utilities. Zelensky stated Ukraine would maintain this restraint provided Russia reciprocates, demonstrating mutual recognition that preserving civilian infrastructure supports both humanitarian needs and diplomatic efforts.
Nevertheless, formidable challenges persist, with territorial sovereignty presenting the greatest obstacle to lasting peace. Russia’s determination to acquire the Donbas region—specifically Donetsk and Luhansk—remains incompatible with Ukraine’s categorical refusal to cede any sovereign territory. With Russia currently occupying Crimea since 2014 and maintaining partial control over Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson since 2022, resolving this territorial dispute will be central to whether the Abu Dhabi talks can achieve a lasting settlement.