President Zelensky confirmed that he agreed to Washington's proposal to hold these negotiations on the specified dates in the United States. However, it remains unclear whether Russia will participate in these meetings.
According to Bloomberg, the main focus of the upcoming negotiations will be on the complex issue of territorial disputes. In particular, discussions are expected regarding the U.S. initiative to create a free economic zone in Donbas, which is viewed with skepticism by both sides.
Zelensky stated: “Neither side is enthusiastic about the idea of a free economic zone — neither the Russians nor us. We have different views on this issue. We have agreed that at the next meeting we will present our visions of what this could look like.” — he noted in a conversation with Bloomberg.
Previously, Russia, Ukraine, and the USA held two rounds of negotiations in Abu Dhabi — the first took place on January 23-24, and the second on February 4-5. As a result of the second meeting, the sides exchanged prisoners: 157 people from each side.
During the last round of negotiations, mechanisms for a ceasefire and U.S. control over its enforcement were discussed. Zelensky pointed out that it has not yet been possible to agree on the details due to the need for political decisions at the highest level and differences in interpretations among the participants.
TASS, citing sources in Abu Dhabi, reported that Moscow insists on the official recognition of Russia's sovereignty over Donbas as part of a broader agreement. Zelensky also asserted that territorial issues can only be discussed in a personal meeting with Vladimir Putin.
According to the Ukrainian president, the USA plans to resolve the conflict before the summer begins, as they will have another priority later — the Congressional elections.
