Zelenskyy sets clear tasks for Ukrainian team in Abu Dhabi ahead of next round of talks

The head of state said he had received a briefing from Ukraine's negotiating team.

"The trilateral format was constructive and quite substantive. They had time to discuss the need and possible parameters for humanitarian steps. The release of prisoners is a priority. They spoke in detail about the substance of security guarantees for Ukraine and the foundations for ensuring these guarantees function over the long term," the president said.

Zelenskyy stressed the need for real mechanisms to prevent any recurrence of the war. The talks also addressed the need for de-escalation measures.

"I gave our team clear instructions for further dialogue – both in the trilateral format tomorrow and more broadly, over the coming days, with envoys of the US President and representatives of Europe. The main thing is to truly bring peace closer. And on Ukraine’s part, there will be only productive, high-quality, and honest work," the head of state emphasized.

Abu Dhabi talks

Trilateral talks between Ukraine, the US and Russia resumed in Abu Dhabi today. European representatives are not taking part directly but are holding separate consultations with the Ukrainian delegation.

Before the meeting with Russian representatives, the Ukrainian side held talks with delegations from the US and European countries. Representatives of the UK, France, Germany, Italy, NATO and the European Commission took part in the consultations.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the first day of trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi as productive. At the same time, he stressed that a quick resolution to the conflict should not be expected in a single day.

Read RBC-Ukraine's report for everything known about the trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi.