Ukrainian representative says breakthrough unlikely in first round of trilateral talks, hopes pinned on second round

Ukraine is not expecting a breakthrough at the first meeting with Russian and US representatives in Abu Dhabi, but hopes are higher for the second round of talks.

Source: Davyd Arakhamiia, leader of the Servant of the People parliamentary faction and a representative of Ukraine in the talks, in a comment to DW

Quote: "I don't think so [a breakthrough should not be expected – ed.]. I'll tell you why: there was a big break for the negotiations. So internally we know that renewing trilateral talks is an achievement by itself…

So that's why the first talks, we have minimal expectations. But the second round, we have expectations."

Details: Arakhamiia also said he does not think the US has picked a side, noting that they are trying to be as "symmetrical" as possible.

Background:

• The peace talks involving Ukraine, the US and Russia, which are scheduled for 10-11 November in Abu Dhabi, will be attended by European Commission, European Council, German, French and British representatives at security adviser level, as well as the NATO secretary general's chief of staff.
• US special envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff will hold a meeting with European representatives prior to the start of the Ukraine-US-Russia talks.
• Ukraine will be represented at the trilateral talks by Rustem Umierov, Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service; Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the President's Office; Serhii Kyslytsia, First Deputy Head of the President's Office; Vadym Skibitskyi, Deputy Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine; and Davyd Arakhamiia.

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