Fri Jan 23 22:55:59 UTC 2026: Headline: US-Led Negotiations in Abu Dhabi Aim to Resolve Protracted Russia-Ukraine War
The Story:
Negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States commenced in Abu Dhabi on January 23, 2026, marking the first direct talks on a U.S.-drafted plan to end the nearly four-year-long war. The talks, hosted by the United Arab Emirates, were preceded by meetings between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the World Economic Forum in Davos, and between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Despite diplomatic efforts, the core issue of territorial control in the Donbas region remains a significant point of contention, with both sides maintaining firm stances.
The article highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Ukraine, with thousands in Kyiv facing sub-zero temperatures without heating due to alleged Russian strikes. While the EU has provided generators, the conflict continues to claim lives, further complicating efforts to reach a resolution. The meeting is being considered a crucial step as previous attempts for resolution stalled significantly.
Key Points:
* Trilateral talks between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine took place in Abu Dhabi on January 23, 2026.
* The negotiations are based on a U.S.-drafted plan to end the war, which has faced criticism from both Kyiv and Moscow.
* Territorial control of the Donbas region is the primary sticking point, with Russia demanding Ukraine’s withdrawal.
* Thousands in Kyiv are without heating due to Russian strikes amidst sub-zero temperatures.
* Prior to the Abu Dhabi talks, Donald Trump met Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Davos, and Steve Witkoff met Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
* Jared Kushner met in Moscow with Vladimir Putin and Steve Witkoff
Key Takeaways:
* The Abu Dhabi talks represent a renewed effort to find a diplomatic solution to the Russia-Ukraine war.
* The territorial dispute in the Donbas region remains the biggest obstacle to achieving a lasting peace.
* The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine underscores the urgent need for de-escalation and resolution.
* The Trump administration is taking a more hands on approach to bring a resolution to the conflict by engaging with both Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
* The UAE plays a critical role as a mediator in the conflict, reflecting its broader diplomatic ambitions.
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