Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in the United Arab Emirates late Sunday, as diplomatic momentum builds toward potential peace negotiations to end Moscow’s war on Ukraine.
His visit follows the recent Munich Security Conference in Germany, where global leaders discussed paths to de-escalation. Zelenskyy and his wife, Olena Zelenska, were welcomed in Abu Dhabi by Emirati officials and an honor guard, marking his first trip to the UAE since the war began in 2022.
A Potential Hub For Peace Talks
The UAE, home to a significant population of Russian and Ukrainian expatriates, has been floated as a possible venue for peace talks. The Gulf nation has previously played a key role in facilitating prisoner exchanges between the two warring countries.
Adding to the diplomatic intrigue, former U.S. President Donald Trump recently suggested a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia, further fueling speculation of a breakthrough in negotiations. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to lead a delegation to Saudi Arabia for direct talks with Russian officials—an unexpected shift from the Biden administration’s previous stance of isolating Moscow.
Strategic And Economic Interests
While the UAE’s state-run WAM news agency has not officially commented on Zelenskyy’s visit, his agenda is expected to focus on humanitarian aid, economic partnerships, and investment opportunities. His office emphasized that securing the release of Ukrainian prisoners remains a top priority.
The timing of Zelenskyy’s arrival is noteworthy, as it coincides with Abu Dhabi’s biennial International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX), a major arms trade event. Both Ukraine and Russia have previously showcased their military technology at the exhibition, despite Western sanctions on Moscow.
Russia’s Growing Influence In The UAE
Meanwhile, Russian influence in the UAE remains strong. Russian money continues to flow into Dubai’s booming real estate market, and daily flights between Moscow and the Emirates provide a crucial link for Russian elites and those avoiding conscription. The U.S. Treasury has raised concerns about the influx of Russian capital into the Gulf region.
Zelenskyy’s visit comes just hours after Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss deepening ties. This flurry of diplomatic activity underscores the UAE’s growing role as a key mediator in the conflict, potentially paving the way for long-awaited peace talks.