Recent US-mediated trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi produced agreement in principle on a large-scale prisoner exchange but no progress toward a broader ceasefire, as Russia maintained its demands for Ukrainian withdrawal from annexed territories including remaining areas of Donetsk and rejected foreign peacekeeping forces. Vladimir Putin reiterated these positions during November 12 meetings with US envoys in Moscow while proposing only a short localized humanitarian pause in Kostiantynivka for aid and evacuations, modeled on the earlier Oleshky truce. Ukrainian officials noted momentum on security guarantees and expressed hope for a deal before year-end, with further rounds including European participants now scheduled and discussions continuing at the APEC summit. Core disputes over territorial demarcation, security architecture, and NATO-related issues continue to limit prospects for a comprehensive agreement in the near term.