Trump Reports Strong Push to End Ukraine War Before Abu Dhabi Talks
US and Russian negotiators show flexibility on territory as envoys prepare for two-day meetings in the United Arab Emirates.
By Simon Bennett ·
Russian forces occupy roughly 20 percent of Ukrainian territory along a 1,200 kilometer front line. President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House on Monday that Washington sees a very strong inclination toward ending the conflict. He described both nations as appearing tired of fighting. The President spoke on the eve of scheduled three-sided talks in Abu Dhabi.
Trump first pledged to resolve the war when he took office in January 2025. The conflict began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in early 2022. It has now lasted more than four and a half years. The front line has remained largely static for several months. The upcoming discussions mark the first mediation talks aimed at ending the war since February.
A US official briefed reporters on Monday that both Russia and Ukraine are demonstrating flexibility in private discussions. The focus is on a potential exchange of territory. Security guarantees for Ukraine will be a central topic. Specific attention is being paid to a NATO-style Article 5 defense pact for Kyiv. The official suggested that meaningful progress is possible, though the process will take time.
Historically, the two sides have held firm positions on borders. Ukraine has sought to push Russian forces back to the original border. Russian President Vladimir Putin has aimed to secure the entire Donbas region. The US official indicated that there is now potential for compromise on these issues. Any final agreement on territory is expected to be reached toward the end of the negotiations. This will occur once other critical items, such as the postwar security architecture, are settled.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are leading the mediation efforts for the two-day talks. The official noted that it is possible the envoys may travel to Russia after the Abu Dhabi meetings. They would hold discussions with President Putin there.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on Monday that recent battlefield successes have strengthened Kyiv’s position. He cited increasing Russian losses. This assessment comes amid tension between the two leaders. Zelensky has clashed with Trump over recent US decisions. Disputes have arisen over the US purchase of Russian diesel, the suspension of certain sanctions, and Trump’s call for Kyiv to halt attacks on Russian oil refineries. Trump has also suggested that Zelensky should be replaced.
