Russia excludes Europe from Ukraine peace talks in Abu Dhabi

Peace talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the US begin in Abu Dhabi today, with Russia refusing to allow European countries at the negotiating table. Russia's stance directly contradicts French claims that its representatives will be present in the room. Russian officials, including Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov, stated Europeans can buy plane tickets but won't sit at the table. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy has coordinated positions with EU leaders, while Russia maintains its demands for control over four annexed regions and Ukraine's exclusion from NATO. Russia continues to reject a ceasefire, insisting negotiations run parallel to fighting. Western forces began training in Poland for potential deployment in Ukraine post-agreement, which Russia warns would be seen as military intervention.