A trilateral working group comprised of representatives from Russia, the United States, and Ukraine is scheduled to convene in Abu Dhabi on Friday, January 23rd, to discuss critical security issues.This marks the frist meeting of its kind, signaling a potential, albeit cautious, step towards dialog amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
According to Yuri Ushakov, an advisor to the Russian President, the Russian delegation will include high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Defense, with the group being lead by Igor Kostyukov, the Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU). Ushakov emphasized that the delegation has received “specific instructions” directly from President Putin regarding the objectives and parameters of the discussions.
Alongside the security talks, a separate bilateral working group focused on economic affairs will also meet in Abu Dhabi. This group will be led by Dmitry and Witkoff, representing their respective nations. This parallel discussion suggests a broader attempt to address the multifaceted implications of the conflict, extending beyond purely military considerations.
Despite the initiation of these talks, the russian side has maintained a firm stance on the core issue of territorial disputes.Ushakov stated that Russia believes a lasting resolution in Ukraine is unattainable without addressing these territorial concerns and reiterated Russia’s commitment to pursuing its objectives on the battlefield until a settlement is reached. This declaration underscores the meaningful challenges that lie ahead in achieving a peaceful resolution.
Ushakov further indicated that Russia and the United States have agreed to maintain consistent communication, not only on matters pertaining to Ukraine but also on a range of other pertinent international issues. This commitment to ongoing dialogue, even amidst deep disagreements, is seen as a crucial element in preventing further escalation and exploring potential avenues for de-escalation.