Russia has agreed in principle to resume trilateral talks with Ukraine and the United States, with technical-level negotiations potentially beginning in Abu Dhabi after November 10, according to Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov.
The announcement followed a nearly three-hour meeting in St. Petersburg between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. No ceasefire or leaders’ summit has been agreed.
What Was Agreed
Ushakov said the proposed negotiations would focus on a future security framework for Russia and Ukraine after the war. The United Arab Emirates has been discussed as a possible venue, with November 10 or a later date cited as the likely timeframe.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy supported the rapid resumption of contacts, saying the goal should be to end the war, move toward peace and prepare for a possible meeting between national leaders.
Russia, Ukraine and the United States held three rounds of talks earlier in 2026. They produced no major political breakthrough, although prisoner exchanges were among the practical results.
Major Disputes Remain
Moscow said it was not fully satisfied with proposals Witkoff had discussed with Zelenskyy, European leaders and NATO representatives in Oslo, although it described them as a step in the right direction.
The parties remain far apart over the future of Ukrainian territory, Ukraine’s relationship with NATO and the structure of a potential settlement. Russia’s willingness to return to talks therefore marks a renewed diplomatic process, not a peace agreement.
Sources: Vesti Baku; Reuters; Associated Press.