US-mediated Russia-Ukraine peace talks open in Abu Dhabi

U.S.-mediated talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States began Tuesday in Abu Dhabi, marking a renewed push to end the war that began with Moscow's invasion nearly five years ago. The two-day session is the first since February and focuses on future security guarantees. The talks follow three previous rounds with no breakthroughs, and fighting continues with new long-range strikes reported overnight. Russia launched 162 drones and a ballistic missile at Ukraine, while Moscow said it shot down 155 Ukrainian drones. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed low expectations for the discussions. The delegations remain far apart, with Russia demanding Ukraine withdraw from four annexed regions and abandon NATO membership, while Ukraine rejects territorial concessions and insists on security guarantees. U.S. envoy Jared Kushner proposed creating a new framework for peace, and broader European security arrangements are also under discussion.