• Trilateral talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the US ended without a breakthrough, though further discussions are anticipated.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy described the talks as "constructive," focusing on parameters for ending the war.
• Ongoing Russian air strikes have cut power to millions of Ukrainians amid freezing temperatures.

Ukrainian and Russian negotiators, accompanied by US representatives, wrapped up two days of talks in Abu Dhabi aimed at resolving the nearly four-year-long conflict without reaching a formal agreement. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy characterized the discussions as “constructive,” noting a focus on "possible parameters for ending the war" and asserting that all parties are prepared to report back to their capitals for coordinating further steps, as additional meetings may occur as early as next week, according to SCMP, Channel News Asia, and Los Angeles Times.

The discussion primarily revolved around the contentious issue of territory in the eastern Donbas region, with Moscow's persistent demand that Ukraine withdraw from areas it still controls being a significant obstacle to reaching a consensus. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that Russia's position remains unchanged, insisting that Ukraine must yield territorial claims before a peace deal can be finalized, according to reports from Channel News Asia and SCMP.

Meanwhile, the backdrop of ongoing military aggression from Russia continues to complicate diplomatic efforts, as fresh air strikes targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure, leaving over 1.2 million people without power amid harsh winter conditions. These attacks were characterized by Ukrainian officials as cynical moves aimed at undermining peace negotiations, with Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stating that "Putin ordered a brutal massive missile strike against Ukraine right while delegations are meeting," demonstrating a stark contrast between diplomatic discussions and military actions, according to CBS News and Al Jazeera.

The talks in Abu Dhabi were unique as they marked the first engagement of US officials in mediating discussions between the conflicting sides since the war's escalation in 2022. Zelenskyy's acknowledgment of American oversight in the peace process highlights the significant role the US is playing in these negotiations, reflecting international stakes in achieving a resolution to the ongoing conflict, as noted by sources including Los Angeles Times and Anadolu Agency.