Abu Dhabi / PNN /
Secret meetings regarding the war in Ukraine were held on Monday between U.S. and Russian officials in Abu Dhabi, aiming to advance efforts toward a ceasefire. The talks are set to continue on Tuesday, according to American and British media reports.
The discussions come as both Ukraine and Russia reported heavy airstrikes by the other side on Tuesday, resulting in casualties on both fronts.
According to ABC News and the Financial Times, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Colin Kahl, is leading the American delegation in the talks. The reports also noted the presence of the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, though it was unclear whether the meetings are trilateral or conducted separately.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov neither confirmed nor denied the reports, telling government-affiliated journalists: “I have nothing to say.”
Meanwhile, leaders of the “Coalition of Willing States” supporting Ukraine are scheduled to hold another video meeting on Tuesday.
New large-scale Russian strikes targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and the capital, Kyiv, according to Ukrainian authorities, while Russia reported a wide-scale Ukrainian attack on several southern regions.
The new missile and drone attacks coincide with Russia’s rejection on Monday of a European counterproposal to the U.S. peace plan. Moscow threatened to escalate strikes if Kyiv does not accept former President Trump’s 28-point plan to end the war.
The Russian Defense Ministry announced that its air defenses intercepted 249 Ukrainian drones overnight from Monday to Tuesday—the highest number since the conflict began.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Ministry of Energy said on Tuesday: “Currently, there is a massive enemy attack on energy facilities.” It added that energy workers would begin assessing damage and carrying out repairs as soon as security conditions allow.
Since the start of the war in February 2022, Russia has systematically targeted Ukrainian power plants, causing repeated electricity outages. This year, attacks have intensified and also targeted gas facilities.
In retaliation, Ukraine has struck oil depots, refineries, and other critical infrastructure in Russia.
