“Russia-Ukraine Talks in UAE Lead to Prisoner Swap, But Broader Peace Still Elusive”

US, Feb 06: The second round of US mediated Russia-Ukraine talks in UAE concluded on Thursday with a significant humanitarian outcome: a large-scale prisoner exchange. However, fundamental differences on territory, ceasefire terms, and long-term security arrangements remain unresolved.

Held in Abu Dhabi, the negotiations involved delegations from the United States, Russia, and Ukraine and primarily focused on easing humanitarian concerns amid the ongoing conflict. While the prisoner swap was implemented promptly, no joint statement was issued on political or security agreements, highlighting the limited progress on broader peace efforts.

Ukraine’s delegation initially engaged in trilateral discussions before moving to group level consultations. Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council, emphasized the country’s pursuit of a “dignified and lasting peace,” though specific outcomes were not disclosed.

US President’s Special Envoy Steve Witkoff described the talks as “specific and constructive,” noting that consensus was reached on the prisoner exchange. He stressed, however, that extensive work remains before a comprehensive settlement can be achieved.

The prisoner swap marked the first large-scale exchange in nearly five months, with 157 detainees returned by each side. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that those released included both military personnel and civilians.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the cooperation, underlining the country’s role as a neutral mediator facilitating dialogue and reducing tensions.

Despite the breakthrough, no timeline has been set for the next round of discussions. Zelensky indicated that further talks involving US and Russian delegations are expected soon, likely to take place in the United States.