Russia Demands NATO Withdrawal and Ukrainian Neutrality in Abu Dhabi Peace Talks

A Russian negotiating delegation presented a document of demands during peace talks in Abu Dhabi outlining conditions for ending the conflict in Ukraine. The non-paper, which is dated November 10, 2026, includes demands for NATO to withdraw all troops and military bases from Eastern Europe to their 1997 positions. The document also requires Ukraine to adopt permanent neutrality enshrined in its constitution.

Russian negotiating demands

The document presented by the Russian delegation outlines several core requirements for peace. Russia demands a complete halt to all Western deliveries of weapons and military equipment to Ukraine. Furthermore, the Russian negotiating position includes a demand that Ukraine cede the entire Donbas region. Regarding international security, Russia demands that NATO members rule out further enlargement and military activity in Ukraine, Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia.

The Russian proposal also addresses the nuclear capabilities of European nations. Russia demands that France and the United Kingdom rule out using nuclear weapons to defend other European countries. Additionally, Russia stated it would only accept Ukraine's membership in the European Union if Kyiv is excluded from the common defense policy of the European Union.

Yuri Ushakov, an advisor to President Vladimir Putin, confirmed that these demands represent the official negotiating position of Russia. While the authenticity of the document has been confirmed by two independent sources, the document is a non-paper and lacks an official letterhead or signature.

International reactions and discussions

The peace talks in Abu Dhabi included participation from General Alexus G. Grynkewich, the Supreme Commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Europe. While the fact sheet confirms his participation, it notes he had a heated exchange with Russian officials during the talks.

In Dublin, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk rejected the Russian proposals. Meanwhile, U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Dublin on Thursday to discuss the ongoing negotiations. A U.S. proposal reportedly includes the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO on the condition that Kyiv cedes the entire Donbas to Russia.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied reports that Russia is demanding the withdrawal of Finland from NATO. However, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen stated that the Russian proposals are unacceptable.

Historical context and security models

The current Russian demands mirror those made in December 2021, prior to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian officials have suggested a security model based on the Cold War-era Warsaw Pact and American-Soviet spheres of influence.

Glossary

• NATO — NATO is an international organization. It is involved in discussions regarding military positions and troop withdrawals in Eastern Europe.
• Donbas region — The Donbas region is a territory in Ukraine. It is a subject of territorial demands in peace negotiations.
• European Union — The European Union is an international organization. It is a union that countries can join, such as Slovenia.
• common defense policy — A common defense policy is a type of policy that organizations like the Union of South American Nations seek to establish. It is also a component of the European Union's structure.