According to The New York Times, during negotiations in Abu Dhabi, the Russian side distributed a document outlining its negotiating position. The publication notes that the document is dated November 10, 2026, lacks official letterhead and a signature, and serves as an unofficial statement of Moscow's demands. The authenticity of the material was confirmed by two sources familiar with the discussion process.
Moscow's main demands
In the presented document, Russia insists on a number of conditions that concern not only Ukraine's borders but also the alliance's global military presence. In particular, Moscow demands an end to NATO military activity in several regions, including the South Caucasus and Central Asia, where more than 80 million people reside.
- Renunciation of further NATO expansion and the exclusion of the possibility of admitting new members.
- Restoration of the alliance's military presence to the 1997 configuration, which implies the withdrawal of troops and bases from countries that joined NATO after that date.
- Complete cessation of Western military aid to Ukraine, including the supply of weapons, equipment, and military-grade products.
Geography of restrictions
Moscow's demands cover several strategic directions where Russia sees a need to limit Western influence.
- year to which NATO must return its military presence
- 1997
- region where NATO activity must cease
- Central Asia
- region where NATO activity must cease
- South Caucasus
