The next round of U.S.-mediated peace talks between Ukraine and Russian is planned for next week in Abu Dhabi, the capital of United Arab Emirates, the Kremlin said on Monday. While Moscow described the first round of talks as "constructive," the key disagreement over control of the Donbas region remains unsolved.

According to TASS, citing Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, the trilateral talks are set to continue next week, though no exact date has been provided.

Peskov stated that the first round of contacts, which concluded last Saturday, proceeded in a "constructive spirit," but he expressed only cautious optimism, noting that "significant work ahead" remains.

"This is a very complex matter, with complex issues on the agenda," said Peskov.

Control of the Donbas region remains a fundamental issue for Moscow. Russia insists that Ukraine cede control over the region, more than 90 percent of which is currently held by Russian forces. Kyiv has maintained that the territorial integrity of Ukraine is non-negotiable.

"Our position is very well known. The 'Anchorage Formula' was discussed, and a corresponding understanding was reached with American negotiators and with President Trump," Peskov told TASS. "The part of the 'Anchorage formula' that concerns territorial issues is of fundamental importance for the Russian side."

The "Anchorage Formula" refers to an agreement reached between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska last August. According to an earlier CGTN report by Dasha Chernyshova, the framework would grant Russia control of all of Donbas while freezing front lines elsewhere in eastern and southern Ukraine.

The three nations have concluded a two-day long security consultation in Abu Dhabi on January 24. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X that "conversations were constructive." U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff also describes the talk as "constructive," stating "plans were made" to continue the talk next week.

(With inputs from agencies)

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