Zelenskyy confirms deadlock on Donbas, nuclear plant in talks with Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told journalists that the talks held in Abu Dhabi failed to produce progress on territorial issues or on the future of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine had reiterated its position on the Donbas, emphasising that maintaining current lines was, in Kyiv’s view, the most realistic basis for a ceasefire at this stage, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media.

He noted that the United States again raised the idea of creating a free economic zone, but said the proposal was not supported by either side.

According to Zelenskyy, Russia continues to demand Ukraine’s withdrawal from the Donetsk region, while Ukraine maintains its existing stance. He added that the US had suggested a compromise, which was discussed during the talks.

On the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant, Zelenskyy said no shared understanding had been reached. He stressed that resolving the issue would require a comprehensive approach, including the restoration of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant, water management, and broader environmental considerations in the region.

Zelenskyy also reiterated that territorial issues could only be settled through negotiations at the highest political level and confirmed his readiness to engage in talks involving the leaders of Ukraine, the United States, and Russia.

By Sabina Mammadli