Gargash says UAE seen as a 'neutral venue' for Russia-Ukraine talks

ABU DHABI - Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said on Wednesday that the UAE is widely regarded as a "neutral venue" for potential peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. 

Gargash highlighted this role during an appearance on Monocle Radio at the World Governments Summit in Dubai.

The UAE has emerged as a key player in international diplomacy, particularly in efforts to facilitate dialogue amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. 

Gargash attributed this perception to the country's deliberate policy of not taking sides in the war, despite facing significant criticism for maintaining relations with both Kyiv and Moscow.

"But at the same time … not to take sides and to maintain relations with Ukraine and to maintain relations with Russia," Gargash explained, emphasizing that this balanced approach has preserved the UAE's credibility as an impartial host.

This stance aligns with the UAE's broader foreign policy of promoting dialogue, de-escalation, and humanitarian efforts in a polarized world. 

Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the UAE has consistently advocated for political solutions over military escalation, while upholding international law and calling for respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The UAE's practical contributions have included mediating multiple prisoner exchanges - facilitating the release of thousands of captives - and providing a platform for discreet discussions. 

Abu Dhabi hosted historic trilateral talks in January 2026 involving delegations from the United States, Russia, and Ukraine. These discussions, described by US officials as yielding "substantial progress" toward a potential ceasefire framework, marked a rare direct engagement among the parties since the conflict began. 

A second round of such talks was anticipated in Abu Dhabi February 4-5,

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Sunday.

The selection of the UAE as a venue reflects growing international recognition of its convening power. Washington has praised Abu Dhabi's initiative as a "major step towards peace," and Zelenskyy has expressed appreciation for the UAE's facilitation role. 

Abu Dhabi's ability to keep channels open with all sides has positioned it as a pragmatic mediator.

 Gargash's remarks come against the backdrop of the World Governments Summit, where global leaders discuss pressing issues, including the need to break geopolitical polarisation. 

The UAE's approach—prioritising consistency, behind-the-scenes diplomacy, and humanitarian support—has allowed it to fill a niche that larger powers sometimes struggle to occupy.

By remaining a bridge-builder rather than a partisan, the UAE continues to demonstrate that neutrality, when backed by credibility and quiet resolve, can serve as a valuable tool for global stability.