Europe absent from Russia-Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi

US-mediated talks between Russia and Ukraine resumed Tuesday in Abu Dhabi for the first time in roughly nine months, with US envoy Jared Kushner citing narrowed differences, though positions remain far apart and European representatives are not at the negotiating table. The first round lasted about four and a half hours, with talks set to continue Wednesday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said discussions covered prisoner exchanges, child returns, and security guarantees. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the day "very productive" but acknowledged much work remains, with plans to eventually expand talks to include Europe. The talks follow President Donald Trump's recent statements suggesting Ukraine will have "a somewhat different form" and a "very large" agreement affecting all of Europe, causing unease. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz demanded Europe not remain a spectator. Russia rejected France's demand for a ceasefire before broader security discussions, while US and European statements emphasized Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.