Europeans to join Russia-Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi, French minister says

European countries, including France, will participate in Russia-Ukraine talks opening Tuesday in Abu Dhabi under US mediation, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced Sunday, confirming European representation at the negotiations. Barrot stated France will be present at the talks, though he will not personally attend, and emphasized that no agreement affecting European security can be designed or discussed without European involvement. He made the remarks following US President Donald Trump's prediction of a "major agreement" with Russia. Barrot also accused hard-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon of echoing Kremlin propaganda after Mélenchon advocated a referendum on Donbass status. The war has become contentious in France's 2027 presidential campaign, with leading candidates Mélenchon and Marine Le Pen taking positions seen as favorable to Russia.