Trilateral talks begin in Abu Dhabi, with grain exports from Ukraine and Russia also on the agenda

A new round of trilateral talks between Ukraine, the United States and Russia began in Abu Dhabi on November 10, focusing on efforts to end the war and reach security agreements. Among the issues Ukraine has proposed for discussion are a halt to attacks on energy infrastructure, ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea and preparations for a meeting between national leaders. The Black Sea agenda is particularly important for agricultural markets, as it is directly linked to the ability to maintain stable exports of grain and other agricultural commodities.

The talks are being mediated by the United States, represented by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The Ukrainian delegation is headed by Foreign Intelligence Service chief Rustem Umerov and also includes Kyrylo Budanov, Serhiy Kyslytsya, Davyd Arakhamia and Vadym Skibitskyi. The Russian delegation is led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, with diplomatic and military officials also participating.

Maritime security in the Black Sea is among the issues on the negotiating agenda. Potential agreements could focus on restoring stable port operations, reducing risks for commercial vessels and ensuring uninterrupted shipments of agricultural commodities. Reports surrounding the talks have also raised the issue of both Ukrainian and Russian grain exports, although there has been no official confirmation that a separate mechanism for these shipments has been agreed upon.

Russia has previously linked the possible revival of Black Sea grain arrangements to the easing of financial and banking restrictions affecting international payments for agricultural products. For Ukraine, ensuring maritime security and the uninterrupted operation of seaports remains a key priority. Any agreements in this area could reduce logistics costs, stabilize freight rates and improve the competitiveness of Ukrainian grain on global markets.

The first day of trilateral talks concluded on November 10, with further discussions scheduled for November 11. No concrete agreements on Black Sea shipping or grain exports have been announced so far. Agricultural market participants are closely monitoring developments, as the potential restoration of safe maritime routes could significantly affect Ukraine’s export prospects, Black Sea logistics and global grain trade.

Tags: Ukraine, Russia, export, Black Sea region, Black Sea grain corridor