Germany Urges Russia to Prove Ceasefire Commitment at Abu Dhabi Talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Russia must demonstrate genuine commitment to a ceasefire at upcoming Abu Dhabi talks, as he hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Berlin on Tuesday. Merz called the new round of negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia "the right step" but stated he has seen no sign of Russian seriousness. The November 10-11 talks, the first direct Ukraine-Russia discussions since February, will address security guarantees, an energy ceasefire, and a Black Sea truce for food exports. Merz stressed that European countries must be included in any lasting agreement, noting they have been largely excluded from US-led efforts. He also said it is unacceptable for third countries to discuss Ukraine's future without its involvement, while reaffirming Germany's continued military support.