Moscow includes military intelligence chief in delegation for Abu Dhabi talks

On 7 November 2026, the Kremlin announced the composition of the Russian delegation for planned trilateral talks with Ukraine and the US in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. According to BTA, the talks are expected to take place on 10 and 11 November.

Delegation includes Putin adviser, diplomats and military officials

According to Peskov, the delegation includes Vladimir Medinsky, an adviser to President Vladimir Putin, Deputy Foreign Ministers Sergei Ryabkov and Mikhail Galuzin, and Igor Kostyukov, head of Russian military intelligence (GRU).

Lieutenant General Yuri Zhigarlovsky of the Russian military's General Staff is also among the announced participants. He is also a member of the scientific council attached to Russia's Security Council. Peskov said other senior diplomatic and military representatives would also travel to the UAE, without naming them.

Agenda and mandate remain unknown

The delegation includes representatives of the presidential administration, the foreign ministry, military intelligence and the General Staff. In Flank's assessment, this composition allows for discussion of both political positions and the military feasibility of any proposals, if they are included on the agenda. The choice of participants does not, in itself, demonstrate a willingness to make concessions or a narrowing of differences.

The precise agenda, the head and mandate of the Russian delegation, and the composition of the Ukrainian and US delegations remain unknown. Kyiv, Washington and the hosts have not confirmed the details announced by the Kremlin. It is unclear whether a ceasefire, territorial issues or security guarantees will be discussed.

The reports by BTA and Mediapool are based on the same Reuters report of Peskov's statement, rather than separate confirmations from the participants. For now, the news concerns the announced Russian delegation and the planned dates, not talks that have taken place or agreements that have been reached.