U.S.-mediated talks involving Russia and Ukraine began in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, opening a new diplomatic round aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine. Ukraine’s delegation chief Rustem Umerov said the day began with Ukrainian and U.S. officials meeting representatives from European governments, NATO and the European Commission, according to the Associated Press. The talks are scheduled to continue through Wednesday.

Talks open alongside a separate European consultation

The opening meeting with European representatives is distinct from the trilateral negotiations among Russia, Ukraine and the United States. Reuters reported that Moscow opposes European participation in the formal trilateral format, while Ukraine’s delegation is expected to brief its European partners separately. The distinction leaves Europe involved in the broader diplomatic process without confirming that it will take a seat in the main negotiation.

The discussions are the first U.S.-mediated trilateral talks since February, Reuters reported. Before the round began, U.S. officials said the agenda would include postwar security arrangements and ways to de-escalate the conflict. Those are subjects for discussion, not evidence that the parties have reached an agreement.

What the opening does—and does not—show

The start of the meetings confirms that representatives are back at the table, but no ceasefire or settlement has been announced. The format and any possible security guarantees remain contested issues. The immediate question is whether the two-day round produces a basis for further negotiations.

The round also follows U.S. efforts to consult European governments ahead of the trilateral talks. Read more about the security-guarantee agenda for the Abu Dhabi talks.

Sources

Associated Press: Talks open in Abu Dhabi and Ukraine delegation chief describes the first meeting
Reuters, republished by Investing.com: Planned two-day format and European participation