Russia, Ukraine Resume US-Brokered Talks in Abu Dhabi
Russian and Ukrainian officials are scheduled to begin two days of US-brokered peace negotiations in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, November 10, marking their first direct talks since February. The discussions follow US President Donald Trump’s suggestion that a broader agreement could end the four-and-a-half-year Russia-Ukraine war while addressing European security concerns.
Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Begin in Abu Dhabi
The negotiations are scheduled to begin at approximately 0630 GMT, with American representatives mediating between Moscow and Kyiv.
Russia’s delegation will be led by Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky, alongside Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov and senior military officials.
France, Germany and the European Commission are sending representatives to Abu Dhabi. However, Moscow opposes their direct participation, meaning Ukrainian officials will brief European representatives separately.
Donbas Territorial Dispute Remains Major Obstacle
Russia continues to demand Ukrainian withdrawal from the entire Donbas region as a condition for ending the conflict.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected surrendering territory still controlled by Ukrainian forces.
American negotiators believe a territorial compromise may be possible, potentially accompanied by security guarantees and a pathway towards European Union membership.
However, a senior Ukrainian official denied that Kyiv was considering territorial concessions, insisting such questions could only be addressed by national leaders.
Trump Proposes Wider European Security Agreement
Trump recently suggested that a potential settlement could extend beyond Ukraine to include broader European security arrangements.
European governments have stressed that decisions affecting their security must involve their direct participation.
Meanwhile, fighting continues despite diplomatic efforts. Ukraine has intensified attacks on Russian oil refineries, while Moscow has targeted Ukrainian cities and electricity infrastructure.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported progress in discussions concerning post-war security guarantees, although significant disagreements remain unresolved.
