Russia Holds Firm on Demands in Abu Dhabi Talks: Key Developments Unveiled

The negotiations, prominently featured on Russian state TV, were followed by a report on Russia’s battlefield successes. According to Russian media, the discussions in Abu Dhabi involving the USA, Russia, and Ukraine lasted over three hours on Friday, though details remain limited. The size of the Russian delegation has not been disclosed.

Only three names are known from the delegation: it is led by the head of the military intelligence service GRU, Igor Kostyukov, who is on several sanctions lists, including those of Europe, Britain, and the USA. Also involved are Russian presidential adviser Yuri Ushakov and Lieutenant General Alexander Sorin, who also participated in the negotiations in Istanbul in the summer of 2025.

Russia’s Stance on the Matter

Before the peace talks even began, Russia’s position was clear. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “Russia’s position is well known. The Ukraine and Ukrainian forces must leave the territory of the Donbass and withdraw from there.” According to Peskov, this is a “very important precondition” for Russia.

In October 2022, approximately eight months after the start of what it termed a “special operation,” Russia illegally annexed four Ukrainian territories. Following sham referendums in the affected areas, the Russian constitution was amended. Now, regions like Luhansk and Donetsk, collectively known as Donbass, are considered part of Russia’s own territory from Moscow’s perspective.

Other Agenda Items

“There are also further nuances that continue to be on the agenda of the negotiations,” Peskov added. Prior to the talks, the Russian news agency TASS reported, citing negotiation circles, that Russia is also seeking an end to US sanctions. Russia wishes to resume trade relations with the United States.

Another point of discussion is a military buffer zone between Ukraine and Russia in the event of a ceasefire. The talks in Abu Dhabi also aim to address who would monitor the ceasefire. Russia has previously stated that if Kyiv does not shift its positions, it will continue to pursue the goals of its so-called “special operation” on the battlefield.