Abu Dhabi Talks Set for Nov 10 Amid Renewed Strikes and European Exclusion

Key points

• US special envoy Steve Witkoff announced trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi for Nov 10-11, focusing on security, de-escalation, and humanitarian issues.
• Zelenskyy stated the talks aim to open a path for a three-way leader meeting including Putin, while Merz criticized Russia's lack of serious engagement.
• Melania Trump brokered a six-day ceasefire in Kherson, allowing evacuations, though Ukraine accused Russia of using the pause to reinforce military positions.
• European leaders are excluded from Abu Dhabi but will meet US envoys in Brussels to discuss security guarantees and reconstruction.
• Russia confirmed Vladimir Medinsky will lead its delegation, while the Kremlin explored a potential trilateral meeting with the US and China.

Background

This development follows earlier US-mediated talks in Kyiv, Oslo, and St. Petersburg, as well as a recent dispute over an energy ceasefire involving Russian refineries. The current diplomatic push occurs amid ongoing strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities and a recent deadly attack on an aid hub in Zaporizhzhia.

How outlets are covering it

Al Jazeera highlighted Zelenskyy’s optimism regarding a future leader-level meeting and noted European frustration at being excluded from the Abu Dhabi talks. CNBC emphasized the Kremlin’s interest in a trilateral meeting with the US and China, potentially excluding Ukraine, and noted tensions over the Kherson ceasefire. The Guardian focused on the humanitarian impact of recent strikes and the formation of a new multinational force in Poland. CBS News noted the working-level nature of the talks and the continued disagreement over territorial concessions.

Why it matters

The outcome of these talks could determine the trajectory of the war, potentially leading to a ceasefire or further escalation. The exclusion of European powers from direct negotiations raises questions about the durability of any agreement and the role of US mediation in shaping post-war security architecture.

What to watch

Watch for the November 10-11 Abu Dhabi talks, the Brussels meeting on security guarantees, and potential developments regarding a trilateral meeting involving the US, Russia, and China at the APEC summit in Shenzhen.