Russia-Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi end without breakthrough, prisoner swap progress reported

Tripartite talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in Abu Dhabi concluded without a tangible breakthrough, though both Moscow and Kyiv confirmed work on a large prisoner exchange. The negotiations, the first since February, focused on post-war European security arrangements. Ukrainian negotiator Davyd Arakhamia called the round "one of the hardest," citing strict Russian directives, but noted "positive momentum" and urged a second round. Russian envoy Vladimir Medinsky said much depends on Ukraine, the US, and Europe. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will meet Putin and Zelensky on Thursday. The talks addressed a new European security framework, with Kyiv seeking guarantees against future attacks and Moscow aiming to limit NATO influence. Territorial disputes over Donetsk remain a key obstacle, with Russia insisting on full control while Ukraine seeks to freeze current front lines.