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US envoys to meet Putin after Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi
US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff will meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow after two days of US-mediated talks between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Abu Dhabi. The discussions produced agreement on what Kushner called the largest prisoner exchange so far, but no figures were given, and the move towards further talks comes as the war approaches its fifth year.
The sides said talks would continue, though few other details emerged and they remain divided over Europe’s role. Russia is demanding Ukrainian withdrawals from parts of the east and a wider security deal, while Kyiv says a ceasefire should come before territorial discussions. After Moscow, the US envoys plan to meet Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Dublin; European officials also held meetings on the sidelines in Abu Dhabi.
In short
- Russia and Ukraine agreed to a major prisoner exchange, with no figures released.
- US envoys will meet Putin in Moscow, then Zelenskyy in Dublin.
- The sides remain divided over territory and Europe’s role in negotiations.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Further talks with Putin could help sustain diplomacy, reduce the risk of escalation and build on the prisoner exchange, which may bring relief to those detained and their families. Supporters of engagement argue that even limited agreements can create momentum, while direct US involvement may help test whether a broader settlement is possible.
The case against
Critics could argue that talks risk lending legitimacy to Russia’s demands while the war continues, especially if territorial concessions are discussed before a ceasefire. They may also worry that negotiations shaped mainly by Washington and Moscow could weaken Ukraine’s agency or leave European security concerns insufficiently represented.
Explained simply
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. The war centres on Ukraine’s sovereignty and control of territory, particularly in the east, and has drawn in international support and diplomacy.
Vladimir Putin leads Russia, while Volodymyr Zelenskyy is Ukraine’s president. The United States has acted as a mediator, with Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff among its envoys; European governments also have a stake in the region’s security.
The sides disagree over the order and terms of any settlement: Russia seeks Ukrainian withdrawals and a broader security deal, while Kyiv says a ceasefire should come before territorial discussions. Their positions matter to any lasting agreement and to the future security of Ukraine and Europe.