High-Stakes Talks: Ukraine and Russia Clash Over Donbas Territory

Ukrainian and Russian negotiators met in Abu Dhabi to discuss the territorial dispute involving Donbas, with no compromise reached. Kyiv faces pressure from the U.S. to negotiate peace while opposing Russia's demand to cede the Donbas region. Ukraine also seeks security guarantees from Western allies amid ongoing Russian strikes.

In a high-stakes meeting in Abu Dhabi, Ukrainian and Russian delegates discussed the deeply contentious issue of the Donbas region, yet there was no sign of compromise. As Russian attacks have intensified, creating a severe energy crisis in Ukraine, talks are critical as Kyiv faces mounting U.S. pressure to negotiate peace.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of the negotiations, focusing on the territorial dispute over Donbas. Despite demands from Moscow for control over the entire region, Ukraine remains steadfast in its refusal to cede land, reflecting the sentiments of the Ukrainian public.

Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict has exacerbated energy shortages in Ukraine, with leaders seeking a ceasefire to prevent a humanitarian crisis. The talks come as Ukraine seeks security assurances from Western allies to deter future Russian invasions, underscoring the diplomatic complexities in reaching a sustainable peace agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)