Russia and Ukraine to hold first direct talks since February

For the first time since February, Russia and Ukraine will hold direct talks to end the war, with US President Donald Trump expressing high hopes for a swift peace agreement, though he appears to be alone in that optimism. The formal negotiations take place in Abu Dhabi with the US as mediator, following criticism from EU leaders over separate direct phone calls between Nordic leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Last month, a local ceasefire was agreed around the town of Olesjky, but fighting continues along the 1,200-kilometer front line. Trump stated in a "60 Minutes" interview that he believes a peace deal is near, suggesting Ukraine may accept changed borders, which Kyiv has rejected. Russia and Ukraine remain far apart on core issues, including security guarantees and NATO's presence in Eastern Europe.