European Leaders Push for Seat at Abu Dhabi Ukraine Talks

Cautious optimism precedes Abu Dhabi talks on Ukraine, with European leaders pressing for representation to secure broader security guarantees for the entire continent. US officials stressed Monday that any future agreement must include wider European security arrangements, as Kyiv fears unfavorable terms. US envoy Jared Kushner said Russia and Europe must hold direct talks on broader security arrangements, noting "difficult decisions" lie ahead. Moscow and Kyiv prepare for Tuesday-Wednesday negotiations under American mediation, with Ukraine seeking de-escalation in the Black Sea, grain exports, and a halt to attacks on infrastructure before winter. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen insisted a ceasefire must precede discussions on continental security. Meanwhile, mutual strikes continue, with Ukraine targeting a Russian explosives factory and Russia reporting deaths in Belgorod. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted Patriot missile shortages weaken defenses.