Abu Dhabi peace talks test Russia's readiness for Ukraine negotiations
US-mediated peace talks between Ukraine and Russia begin Tuesday in Abu Dhabi, testing Moscow's willingness to negotiate an end to the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky coordinated with European leaders beforehand to ensure Kyiv's security concerns are addressed. The two-day talks formally involve only Ukraine, Russia, and the US, but European governments seek input amid fears Kyiv may face pressure for territorial concessions. Ukraine's negotiator Rustem Umerov will hold separate coordination meetings with European partners, while the Kremlin insists the format remains strictly trilateral. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the talks will reveal if Russia is serious about a settlement, urging Moscow to drop "maximalist demands." US envoy Jared Kushner noted Russia and Europe may need direct discussions on broader security arrangements, as Zelensky also sought support from India for grain export corridors.