Abu Dhabi, February 6: The second round of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by the United States, has concluded. Both nations agreed on a large-scale prisoner exchange, yet no significant progress was made on key issues like regional stability and a ceasefire.
According to Ukraine, discussions initially involved three countries before transitioning to group-level talks. Rustam Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, stated that the Ukrainian delegation sought “respectful and lasting peace,” but did not disclose any specific outcomes.
The talks wrapped up on Thursday, but no joint political or security statements were issued by either Russia or Ukraine. This indicates that disagreements over territorial disputes, ceasefire terms, and security guarantees remain unresolved.
Steve Vitkoff, the U.S. special envoy, reported that representatives from the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine reached an agreement on prisoner exchanges. He described the discussions as constructive and positive, but emphasized that further efforts are needed to resolve the overall conflict.
Following the talks, Russia and Ukraine conducted their first significant prisoner exchange in nearly five months, releasing 157 individuals from each side. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that those freed included both military personnel and civilians.
Previously, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, stating that it underscores the UAE’s role as a mediator in reducing tensions and advancing dialogue. The UAE has positioned itself as a reliable intermediary.
Currently, no date or plan for the next round of talks has been announced, highlighting ongoing uncertainty regarding a political resolution. However, President Zelensky mentioned on Thursday that further peace talks with U.S. and Russian representatives are expected soon. He indicated that upcoming meetings may likely take place in the United States.