Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to the president of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, for his mediation efforts in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The two leaders met in Moscow ahead of a new round of peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators, set to take place in Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the role of the United Arab Emirates in facilitating prisoner exchanges and reiterated the country's commitment to supporting humanitarian initiatives. In addition to discussing the Ukraine conflict, the leaders addressed the situation in the Middle East, emphasizing the need for renewed efforts toward a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. They also explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, technology, space, and energy, building on recent agreements between their countries.