Unscheduled Russia-Ukraine talks underway in Abu Dhabi

Russian and Ukrainian officials have initiated direct, unplanned negotiations in Abu Dhabi. The Ukrainian delegation is led by Kyrylo Budanov, the chief of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate.

Sources indicate that the meeting was not publicly announced and is being held behind closed doors, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The talks are considered a separate diplomatic track, running parallel to ongoing efforts aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Neither side has disclosed the content of the discussions or indicated any potential agreements. Official channels from both countries continue to maintain strict silence on the matter, underscoring the sensitive and confidential nature of the negotiations.

These unplanned talks follow recent US-backed discussions in Geneva between Ukrainian and American officials and are viewed as part of broader efforts to explore pathways toward a ceasefire and a lasting peace framework.

Ukraine signalled support for the framework of a peace deal with Russia but stressed that sensitive issues needed to be fixed at a meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump.

By Vafa Guliyeva