Russia Sends Higher-Level Delegation to Ukraine Talks in Abu Dhabi

Russia is sending a higher-level delegation to US-mediated talks with Ukraine in Abu Dhabi than in previous rounds, potentially signaling readiness for more substantive negotiations. The trilateral talks are starting with Russia, Ukraine, and the US participating. Russia's delegation includes presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, Deputy Foreign Ministers Sergei Ryabkov and Mikhail Galuzin, military intelligence chief Igor Kostyukov, and senior General Staff officer Yuri Zhigarlovsky. Ukraine's team is led by Foreign Intelligence Service head Rustem Umerov, with Office of President chief Kirill Budanov and lawmaker David Arakhamia. Putin discussed preparations with Russia's Security Council on Friday. US special envoy Steve Witkoff announced the talks would focus on next steps toward peace. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Russian delegation will arrive in Abu Dhabi on November 10-11. Ukrainian President noted Russia appears serious about the meeting, while President Trump suggested a major agreement involving Ukraine could be reached soon.