Zelensky noted that he received a proposal from American colleagues to hold meetings specifically on the indicated dates and on U.S. territory. However, it is still unknown whether Russia will agree to participate in the negotiations in this format.
According to Bloomberg, the upcoming negotiations will focus primarily on territorial issues. It is expected that the delegations will discuss the U.S. initiative to create a free economic zone in Donbas as a buffer solution. As the Ukrainian president pointed out, this proposal has caused dissatisfaction on both sides.
“Neither side shows enthusiasm for the free economic zone — neither Russia nor Ukraine. We have different views on this issue. We agreed to return to the next meeting with a clearer vision of what this could look like,” Zelensky stated in an interview with Bloomberg.
Earlier, the countries held two rounds of negotiations in Abu Dhabi: the first took place on January 23-24, and the second on February 4-5. Following the second meeting, a prisoner exchange occurred — 157 for 157.
Vladimir Zelensky clarified that the last round discussed mechanisms for a ceasefire and U.S. oversight of its implementation. However, according to him, the parties could not agree on the details without political decisions at the highest level and due to differences in wording.
According to TASS, citing a Western source in Abu Dhabi, Russia is seeking official recognition of sovereignty over Donbas in the negotiations. Zelensky previously emphasized that territorial issues can only be resolved through a personal meeting with Vladimir Putin.
According to the Ukrainian president, the U.S. insists on ending the conflict before the beginning of summer, as after that they will have another priority — the Congressional elections.
