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Abu Dhabi: Ukraine, Russia, US Talks Continue – Potential Donbas Exchange Proposed

Published January 24, 2026, 07:11
Abu Dhabi: Ukraine, Russia, US Talks Continue – Potential Donbas Exchange Proposed

Talks between Russian, Ukrainian, and US negotiators to end the war in Ukraine are continuing for a second day in Abu Dhabi. US officials describe the talks as “productive,” while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy states it is too early to draw conclusions. Russia, through close Putin aide Yuri Ushakov, insists that resolving territorial issues is essential for lasting peace. A key point of contention remains Russia's demand for Ukraine to cede 25% of the Donetsk region. Reports in the press indicate that US negotiators have proposed an exchange of Donbas for an $800 billion funding package and Western security guarantees.