Zelensky visits UAE amid concerns over US-Russia talks on Ukraine
2 Min Read
Zelensky previously announced that his diplomatic tour would include Turkey and Saudi Arabia, where he aims to bolster Ukraine's international partnerships.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky walks off a place with the first lady upon landing in the United Arab Emirates. (@ZelenskyyUa)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for an official visit, stressing the need for humanitarian aid, economic cooperation, and securing the release of Ukrainian prisoners.
His trip comes at a critical moment, as US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin prepare for a highly anticipated diplomatic meeting—raising concerns that Washington and Moscow may negotiate without Kiev's involvement.
Zelensky shared a video of his arrival, showing him stepping off the plane and meeting with UAE officials.
"An official visit with the First Lady to the United Arab Emirates," he wrote on Telegram, highlighting his priorities: "The priority is to bring even more of our people home from captivity. As well as investment and economic partnership. A large humanitarian programme."
زيارة رسمية إلى الإمارات العربية المتحدة برفقة السيدة الأولى.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 16, 2025
الأولوية – ضمان عودة المزيد من أسرانا إلى أرض الوطن.
و كذلك الاستثمارات والشراكة الاقتصادية.
وبرنامج إنساني كبير. pic.twitter.com/3OGkp4tkYT
Regional diplomatic push amid Ukraine war talks
Zelensky previously announced that his diplomatic tour would include Turkiye and Saudi Arabia, where he aims to bolster Ukraine's international partnerships. However, he made it clear that he has no intention of meeting with US or Russian officials during the trip.
His visit takes place against the backdrop of growing concerns in Kiev and European capitals that Washington and Moscow may pursue a resolution to the war without direct Ukrainian involvement. Many in Ukraine fear that any agreement brokered without their participation could result in territorial or security concessions to Russia.
Read more: Ukrainian forces wasting NATO-supplied arms: UK defense sources
The UAE has emerged as a key mediator throughout the war, particularly in facilitating prisoner exchanges and securing the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia. Its diplomatic efforts have made it a trusted channel for negotiations, maintaining ties with both Moscow and Kiev.
