Trump Cites Strong Momentum Toward Ending Ukraine Conflict Ahead of Abu Dhabi Talks
The US President indicated that both Kyiv and Moscow are showing flexibility on territorial issues as three-sided negotiations begin in the United Arab Emirates.
By Vanessa Lopez ·
US President Donald Trump stated on Monday that Washington is observing a very strong inclination toward ending Russia's war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters at the White House on the eve of scheduled three-sided talks, the President noted that both nations involved in the conflict appear tired of fighting.
Trump reaffirmed his commitment to resolving the conflict, a goal he had set upon taking office in January 2025. Despite this early vow, ending the war that began with Russia's full-scale invasion in early 2022 has remained a challenging objective for the administration.
According to a US official briefing reporters on Monday, both Russia and Ukraine are demonstrating flexibility in private discussions regarding the potential exchange of territory ahead of the upcoming meetings. The official emphasized that security guarantees for Ukraine will be a central topic, with specific attention paid to the possibility of a NATO-style Article 5 defense pact for Kyiv.
Historically, both sides have held firm positions on territorial matters. Ukraine has sought to push Russian forces back to the original border between the two countries, while Russian President Vladimir Putin has aimed to secure the entire Donbas region. However, the US official indicated that there is now potential for compromise on these issues.
Any final agreement on territory is expected to be reached toward the end of the negotiations, once other critical items such as the postwar security architecture have been settled. The official expressed cautious optimism on the US side, suggesting that while the process will take time, meaningful progress is possible.
These discussions mark the first mediation talks aimed at ending the war since February. The conflict has now continued for more than four and a half years, with the front line remaining largely static for several months. Russian forces currently hold approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory along a front line that spans 1,200 kilometers.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are leading the mediation efforts for the two-day talks in Abu Dhabi. The official noted that it is possible the envoys may travel to Russia following the Abu Dhabi meetings to hold discussions with President Putin.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on Monday that recent battlefield successes and increasing Russian losses have strengthened Kyiv's position in the negotiations. This assessment comes amid a period of tension between the two leaders, with Zelensky clashing with Trump over recent US decisions.
In recent weeks, disputes have arisen over the US purchase of Russian diesel, the suspension of certain sanctions, and Trump's call for Kyiv to halt attacks on Russian oil refineries. Trump has also suggested that Zelensky should be replaced, adding a layer of complexity to the diplomatic efforts currently underway in the Middle East.
