US proposes new security framework with Europe in Ukraine talks

Negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, mediated by the US, began Tuesday in Abu Dhabi for the first time since February, with Washington proposing a new security framework that includes Europe. Ukrainian delegation head Roustem Oumerov expressed hope for a durable peace, while US envoy Jared Kushner called for a framework ensuring "decades, even centuries, of peace." The talks, which continue Wednesday, involve US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Ukraine met with US, UK, EU, and NATO representatives beforehand to align positions. A US official said he was "cautiously optimistic," noting both sides showed flexibility in private, though Kyiv stated it had no particular expectations and Berlin questioned Russia's seriousness. Russia seeks to exclude Europe from discussions and opposes European peacekeeping troops. Moscow continues striking Ukraine's energy grid, launching a missile and 162 drones overnight. A recent US-brokered ceasefire in the Kherson region, promoted by Melania Trump, held and allowed humanitarian evacuations, offering a potential model for local truces.