We shouldn't expect major breakthrough from first round of talks with Ukraine – Kremlin

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has said it would be wrong to expect significant results from the first round of trilateral talks with Ukraine.

Source: Russian state propaganda news agencies TASS, RIA Novosti and Interfax; Telegram channel Vy Slushali Mayak (You have been listening to Radio Mayak) with reference to Peskov's comments

Quote: "I cannot yet give an assessment [of the talks in Abu Dhabi – ed.]. It would be a mistake to expect any major breakthroughs from the first round. This is a very complex matter. There are difficult issues on the agenda. But the very fact that these contacts have begun in a constructive manner can be viewed positively. There is still serious work ahead."

Details: Peskov added that talks are currently under way "at expert level".

"The working groups are doing their job. Direct-format negotiations are at an early stage," Peskov said.

He again reiterated Russia's claims about the so-called Anchorage formula and said that Moscow's position had not changed.

"Our position is well known. The Anchorage formula has been discussed and a certain understanding was reached with the American negotiators and with President [Donald] Trump," Peskov said.

He also stressed that the occupation of part of Ukraine remains a key issue.

"It is no secret, and this is our consistent position, that the territorial issue, which is part of the Anchorage formula, is of fundamental importance for the Russian side. And our negotiators continue to defend these interests," he said.

Peskov added that "friendliness is unlikely" in talks on Ukraine, but that if they are taking place, "efforts must be made to achieve something".

According to the Kremlin spokesperson, trilateral contact is planned to continue next week, although no exact date has been set.

He also said that there is currently no phone call with Trump scheduled for Putin but added that "channels for dialogue with the American side allow bilateral contact at the highest level to be coordinated almost instantly".

Background:

• Trilateral talks between the US, Ukraine and Russia took place in Abu Dhabi on 23–24 January.
• Media reports said the sides had made progress on military issues.
• President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the 23–24 January talks in Abu Dhabi between Ukraine, the US and Russia as constructive and said they might continue the following week.
• According to Axios, the next round of trilateral talks between Ukraine, the US and Russia in the United Arab Emirates is scheduled for Sunday 1 February.
• The outlet also reported that on 24 January, in addition to the trilateral format involving Ukraine, the US and Russia, bilateral talks were also held between Ukraine and Russia without the participation of the American side.
• Zelenskyy later said that the US must also be ready to compromise in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.

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