Russia and Ukraine Hold First Direct Talks in Abu Dhabi in Over Eight Months

Russia and Ukraine held their first direct talks in over eight months in Abu Dhabi, mediated by the US, with a new prisoner exchange reportedly agreed on the first day. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov rejected an immediate ceasefire. The two-day talks, which lasted about four and a half hours, focused on security guarantees for Ukraine, Russia, and the region. Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov and Russian lead Vladimir Medinsky expressed hopes for progress, though positions remain far apart. US officials, including Jared Kushner, participated. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said humanitarian issues, including the return of children, were discussed. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the meeting productive but noted much work remains. European leaders, including Germany's Johann Wadephul, urged broader European involvement in future negotiations.