Russia, US, and Ukraine open peace talks in Abu Dhabi

Trilateral peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States have begun in Abu Dhabi, with European representatives also present, marking the first high-level negotiations since February. Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov confirmed the meeting includes delegations from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, NATO, and the European Commission, alongside US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The Kremlin insists the talks remain strictly trilateral, with Russia previously opposing direct European participation. The talks aim to revive diplomatic efforts stalled since February, when US-Israel conflict with Iran interrupted negotiations. US officials expressed cautious optimism, noting both sides have shown some flexibility behind the scenes, though no agreement is expected this week.