Peace talks between Russia and Ukraine ‘will take place in coming days’, Zelensky says
Volodymyr Zelensky says new Russia-Ukraine peace talks could take place as early as 10 November, with a US team expected to lead a meeting in Abu Dhabi. He says Ukraine is willing to discuss sensitive issues, but argues that progress depends on sustained diplomatic pressure and the United States recognising Russia as the aggressor.
The meeting was initially expected towards the end of November, and Kyiv had proposed talks on the Sunday before the US midterm elections. Zelensky said Washington postponed a planned Brussels meeting to focus on the Middle East, and warned that pauses could slow efforts to secure a ceasefire. He also said he had not spoken directly with Donald Trump since the US president made comments about Russia’s conduct, amid worsening relations between Washington and Kyiv.
In short
- Zelensky says talks could happen as early as 10 November.
- A US-led meeting is expected in Abu Dhabi.
- He warns that diplomatic pauses could delay a ceasefire.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Those who favour holding talks soon argue that even a fragile opening can reduce the risk of further fighting and create a route towards a ceasefire. Ukraine’s willingness to discuss sensitive issues may help test whether diplomacy can make progress, while sustained US involvement could give the process greater influence.
The case against
Those urging caution argue that talks without sustained diplomatic pressure or a clear recognition of Russia’s role as aggressor may yield little, or expose Ukraine to pressure for concessions without reliable security guarantees. Repeated postponements and strained relations between Kyiv and Washington could also weaken the process and make a durable ceasefire harder to secure.
Explained simply
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, after years of conflict between the two countries. A ceasefire would stop the fighting, while a peace agreement would need to address the terms for ending the war.
Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, leads the country’s government and armed forces. Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, leads Russia; the United States has been involved in diplomatic efforts, alongside other countries.
The war has caused widespread deaths and displacement, and has affected security and energy supplies beyond the two countries. Any negotiations could involve difficult questions about territory, security and the conditions for ending the fighting.
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