Zelensky says Russia refuses energy ceasefire, citing lack of mandate in Abu Dhabi talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia is unwilling to agree to an energy ceasefire, as its delegation in Abu Dhabi claimed to lack the mandate to discuss the issue. He said Moscow's negotiators deferred all decisions to Vladimir Putin. Zelensky noted the Russian side also avoided detailed discussion of any other ceasefire proposals. He said Ukraine suggested a leaders' meeting since Putin makes all decisions, and the US team agreed to travel to Moscow to discuss it, but Putin personally does not support a ceasefire. Zelensky warned against prioritizing talks on a post-war security structure in Europe, which he said Americans raised but Russians favor. He insisted on sequencing: ending the war, securing guarantees for Ukraine, then broader steps. He rejected neutrality, stating Ukraine will not change its constitution, as real European security means EU and NATO membership.