Zelensky calls Abu Dhabi talks with Russia 'constructive and substantial'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the first day of US-mediated talks with Russia in Abu Dhabi "constructive and quite substantial," saying he gave clear instructions to continue the trilateral dialogue. The talks, the first since February 2026, focused on humanitarian issues and security guarantees. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called them "very productive" but said much work remains, with plans to eventually expand the format to include European representatives directly. Separately, Denmark announced new military aid of over 600 million euros for Ukraine, while EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed 50 million euros for Black Sea security. European and American officials reaffirmed that any agreement must respect Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty.