Intel chief Budanov on Abu Dhabi talks: They must stay in shadows
Photo: Head of the GUR of the Ministry of Defense Kirill Budanov (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Peace negotiations to end the war in Ukraine must remain behind the scenes.
This was stated by the head of Ukraine's Defense Ministry Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, during a conversation with an RBC-Ukraine correspondent on the sidelines of the second military prayer breakfast.
When asked to confirm information about secret talks in Abu Dhabi, he replied that any sensitive processes require discretion.
"All negotiations must be behind the scenes, so to speak. Otherwise, they will not succeed. Whether we like it or not, we could simply jeopardize them. So wait," Budanov said.
Secret talks in Abu Dhabi
According to Western media, US General Charles Driscoll held closed meetings with the Russian side in Abu Dhabi. The reports state that the contacts were coordinated in advance through diplomatic channels and were not publicized due to the sensitivity of the topic. The Pentagon confirmed the talks but refused to disclose the format or the composition of the Russian delegation, noting only that "the work is in a sensitive phase."
American media report that the Abu Dhabi meeting continued the negotiation process that began in Geneva. Politico wrote that intensive consultations took place between the US, Ukraine, and indirectly Russia on an updated peace plan.
The initial version of the document included 28 points, including provisions on Ukraine’s neutral status, territorial concessions, and arms restrictions. After criticism from Kyiv and certain European capitals, the plan was reduced to about 19 points, though key contentious issues remained.
As Financial Times clarified, Washington is trying to develop a "ceasefire formula" that does not appear as direct pressure on Kyiv while aligning with the approach of the new US administration. Officials emphasize that final decisions will be made by US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.
