Russia and Ukraine have shown a willingness to compromise on the future of the eastern Donetsk region, despite publicly holding firm on their opposing positions, according to a U.S. official. This development occurs as the two nations prepare for trilateral peace negotiations in Abu Dhabi alongside the United States, where territorial disputes and security arrangements will be key topics of discussion.
While Russia continues to assert its demand for control over the entire Donetsk region, Ukraine favors maintaining the current frontline as the basis for any settlement. However, private discussions suggest that both sides may be open to some flexibility, indicating a potential shift in the longstanding stalemate.
The U.S. official emphasized that resolving the territorial dispute requires establishing post-war security arrangements. As part of this effort, Washington is reportedly considering providing Ukraine with security guarantees akin to NATO’s Articles 4 and 5, possibly with backing from European allies.
The upcoming discussions in Abu Dhabi will also include Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, NATO, and the European Union. Although U.S. officials have cautioned that a final agreement is unlikely to emerge from this meeting, it could serve as a catalyst for restarting the peace process.