Zelenskyy Visits UAE Amid Growing Momentum for Peace Talks on…

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the UAE amid growing talks for peace negotiations to end the war with Russia. His trip follows recent U.S. diplomatic developments suggesting an interest in dialogue with Russia, while concerns about Russian investments in the UAE persist. Zelenskyy aims to focus on the return of captives and economic partnerships during his visit.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as discussions around peace talks to conclude Moscow’s war on Ukraine gain momentum. His trip follows a previous suggestion from U.S. President Donald Trump about a potential meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia. The UAE, which has a significant population of Russian and Ukrainian expatriates, has been considered a suitable location for such negotiations due to its history in facilitating prisoner exchanges.

Arriving in Abu Dhabi after attending the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy was welcomed by an Emirati official and an honor guard. This marks his first visit to the UAE since the resurgence of the conflict following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. His office emphasized the priorities of repatriating captives, enhancing economic partnerships, and initiating substantial humanitarian programs during his stay.

Despite typical protocols, the UAE’s state-run WAM news agency has yet to report on Zelenskyy’s visit, fostering ambiguity regarding his specific agenda. One anticipated event is the International Defense Exhibition and Conference taking place in Abu Dhabi, where both Ukrainian and Russian military equipment will be showcased despite the sanctions imposed on Russia.

The influx of Russian investments into Dubai’s real estate market continues, supported by regular flights between the Emirates and Moscow aiding those escaping conscription. Concerns have been raised by the U.S. Treasury regarding the significant volume of Russian funds entering the UAE.

Zelenskyy’s visit coincides with Denis Manturov, Russia’s first deputy prime minister, who engaged in talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan earlier that day, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties. In the U.S., Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead a delegation in discussions with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia, indicating a shift from previous isolationist policies toward Moscow since the beginning of the conflict.

Zelenskyy’s visit to the UAE highlights the increasing international efforts to facilitate peace talks regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. His focus remains on repatriating captives and fostering economic ties, amid the geopolitical complexity involving Russia and the U.S. The presence of Russian financial interests in the UAE complicates the landscape, while diplomacy endeavors from both sides continue to unfold.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com