Russia and Ukraine Hold a Second Day of U.S.‑Brokered Peace Talks in Abu Dhabi

Delegations from Russia and Ukraine continued a second day of U.S.‑brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi on efforts to end their nearly four‑year war, with trilateral consultations and group work underway amid ongoing hostilities and deep disagreements over key issues.

By Maria Rodriguez – Senior Staff Writer

Last Updated: Feb. 4, 2026

Talks Resume for Second Day in UAE Capital

Ukraine and Russia began a second day of U.S.‑brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi on Thursday aimed at finding a diplomatic solution to the nearly four‑year conflict that began with Russia’s full‑scale invasion in February 2022. Top negotiators from both sides, along with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, continued discussions in a trilateral format of consultations and group work designed to narrow differences on core issues. Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov said the talks were proceeding in the same structured formats as the first day, reflecting both sides’ commitment to sustained engagement. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Focus on Ending War Amid Ongoing Fighting

The talks have taken place against the backdrop of ongoing hostilities, including intensified Russian winter attacks on Ukraine’s power grid and frontline fighting stretching over a roughly 600‑mile front. Umerov emphasized that Ukraine needs tangible progress toward peace and strong security guarantees to deter future aggression. Despite the diplomatic push, military actions continued, illustrating the complexities of negotiating a ceasefire while conflict persists on the ground. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Progress and Positive Signals Reported

Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev said there was progress and “positive movement” in the talks, with both sides engaging meaningfully in discussions aimed at a peace deal. Both Kyiv and Moscow described the first day as productive, with careful deliberations on practical steps. While no formal breakthrough has been announced, these signals are seen by some diplomats as a cautious sign that the negotiations may yield incremental advances if sustained over time. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

U.S. Role and International Support

The United States has played a central role in brokering the talks, which are part of broader diplomatic efforts to end Europe’s most destructive conflict since World War II. The negotiations in the UAE reflect international interest in stabilizing the region and reducing the human toll of the war, which Ukrainian officials have noted includes tens of thousands of military and civilian casualties. U.S. participation underscores Washington’s commitment to facilitating dialogue even as differences remain stark on several fundamental issues. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Key Sticking Points and Future Outlook

Major unresolved issues remain at the heart of the talks, including Ukraine’s territorial integrity, the status of occupied regions such as Donetsk, and long‑term security arrangements. Ukraine rejects demands for unilateral territorial concessions, while Russia continues to press for leverage on areas it occupies. Observers caution that while the second day of talks signals continued diplomatic engagement, reaching a comprehensive peace agreement will likely require sustained negotiations over time with significant international involvement. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}