Germany's Merz urges Russia to prove ceasefire commitment at Abu Dhabi talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Russia must demonstrate genuine commitment to a ceasefire and peace agreement with Ukraine at talks scheduled next week in Abu Dhabi, during a Tuesday meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin. Merz called the trilateral negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia "the right step" but stated he has seen no sign of Russian seriousness, emphasizing that Europe must be included in the process. The November 10-11 talks, the first direct Ukraine-Russia meeting since February, will address security guarantees, an "energy ceasefire," and a Black Sea truce for food exports. Zelenskyy said Kyiv is ready for diplomatic steps but requires security guarantees, noting low expectations for a potential call with Vladimir Putin. He reported 33 people killed in a Russian strike on a school used as an aid center. Merz added that Germany would continue military support, calling it essential for European stability.