Ukraine peace talks: Who is sitting at the negotiating table – and why it matters

Ukrainian and Russian security envoys, alongside US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have commenced the first trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi since February. The discussions, which last for two days, aim to address security guarantees, de-escalation, humanitarian aid, and a potential resolution for the broader conflict. US envoys will engage with representatives from Ukraine, the European Union, NATO, Germany, France, Britain, and Italy.

Despite the officials' confidence, a breakthrough seems unlikely due to ongoing hostilities between Moscow and Kyiv. Russian forces continue to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure, while Ukraine demands robust security assurances and refuses to cede any territory. A US official expressed optimism, stating, "I do believe that now we're in a position where there is a shot at trying to make, you know, serious progress to end the war."

The talks follow President Trump's Republican Party's loss in the US midterm elections. Previous rounds of US-mediated talks between Russia and Ukraine took place in Abu Dhabi. Since the outbreak of the war, both sides have exchanged numerous prisoners, facilitated by mediation from the United Arab Emirates.