Middle East Escalation Could Delay Ukraine-Russia-US Talks in Abu Dhabi, Zelenskyy Warns

A planned trilateral meeting between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States in Abu Dhabi now depends on Washington, despite Kyiv and Moscow confirming their readiness to participate, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters, as reported by United24 Media on October 28.

Speaking to journalists the same day, Zelenskyy explained that the United States' focus on the Middle East could affect the timing of the negotiations, which are planned for November.

“The Russians confirmed, and we confirmed. In my view, at this point, it no longer depends on the Russians or on us,” Zelenskyy stated. “The meeting in Abu Dhabi now depends on the American side, because everyone has said they view this meeting format positively.”

The Ukrainian President warned that potential escalation in the Middle East, alongside possible political changes in the region, could influence Washington’s diplomatic priorities and the timing of the talks.

The proposed meeting would bring together technical negotiating teams from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States. Kyiv expects discussions to cover initial de-escalation measures in the energy sector and at sea, prisoner exchanges, Ukraine’s security priorities, and the possible format of a future trilateral meeting between national leaders.

Read more

Category

World

Putin Avoids EU Leaders, So Europe Is Searching for Someone He Might Talk To

Oct 22, 2026 20:03

The proposed talks could also address competing demands for security guarantees. Zelenskyy noted that Russia is seeking guarantees of its own, while Ukraine has already raised its security requirements with American and European partners.

The Middle East crisis has already affected preparations for the negotiations. Zelenskyy explained that Washington had previously requested a postponement of a separate preparatory meeting in Brussels because American representatives needed to remain in the US capital. Ukraine is now awaiting new proposals for that meeting.

Diplomatic preparations for the Abu Dhabi talks have also involved Finland and Norway. Earlier, on October 28, Zelenskyy stated that Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre had contacted the Russian leader Vladimir Putin after consultations with Kyiv.

Following their conversation, both leaders informed Zelenskyy that they believed Moscow was serious about participating in the Abu Dhabi meeting.

Truth is Under Attack

We report the war as it unfolds directly from the people and places most affected by it. Your support helps us bring these stories to the world.

SUPPORT