Negotiations aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine could drag on for several years, according to analysts at the Financial Times. The paper does not rule out a prolonged diplomatic process with no quick resolution in sight.

The authors suggest that Vladimir Zelensky agreed to a new round of talks in the United Arab Emirates largely to avoid irritating U. S. President Donald Trump. At the same time, they argue, the move also reflects a growing sense of war fatigue on the Ukrainian side.

The newspaper notes that Ukraine is under heavy pressure following repeated and precise Russian strikes on energy facilities, which have added to the strain on the country. Against this backdrop, European capitals are increasingly concerned that the White House could lose interest in the Ukrainian issue if negotiations stall.

According to Financial Times, the Trump administration may run out of patience with a peace process that is likely to be lengthy and demand sustained political focus, especially as other domestic and foreign challenges continue to pile up on Washington’s agenda.

The paper’s analysts warn that talks on ending the conflict could last for many years. They point to the precedent of Vietnam, where negotiations began in 1968 but did not conclude until 1973. As the fourth anniversary of the war approaches, the groundwork for a full-fledged peace process may now be in place, the authors write, but active fighting is still likely to continue into 2027.

Earlier, Vladimir Zelensky announced that the next round of peace talks is scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on February 1.