Abu Dhabi, 10 November, 2026 (Nosheen): Russian and Ukrainian officials have held their first peace negotiations since February in Abu Dhabi, as the United States renewed efforts to end the ongoing war between the two countries. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the US-brokered meeting as highly productive, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy termed the discussions constructive and substantive. According to Zelenskiy, the talks focused on humanitarian and security issues, including the release of prisoners of war and long-term security guarantees for Ukraine. He stressed the need for effective measures to prevent a renewed outbreak of hostilities and highlighted the importance of de-escalation. Despite renewed diplomatic efforts, significant differences remain between Moscow and Kyiv over the terms of a possible peace agreement. Russian forces currently control approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, while key disagreements include territorial arrangements, future security guarantees, Ukraine’s neutrality and its potential membership in NATO. US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Jared Kushner said recent diplomatic contacts had helped narrow differences between the two sides and expressed optimism about further progress. A second round of negotiations was scheduled for Wednesday, although Russia had not immediately commented on the discussions. Trump has increased pressure on Kyiv to reach a settlement, warning Ukraine of serious consequences if the conflict continues, while expressing confidence that a broader agreement could bring an end to the war and address wider European security concerns.