US officials seek a “final end” to the war in Ukraine as Abu Dhabi talks begin
Trilateral talks between the US, Russia and Ukraine have begun in Abu Dhabi, the first substantive negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv since February. Washington also wants to build a new security architecture between Russia and Europe.
Trilateral talks on Russia's war against Ukraine began on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Delegations from the US, Russia and Ukraine are taking part in the first substantive negotiations between the two warring countries since February. US officials say they want a “final end” to the war, a goal that could also reshape the wider European security order.
The talks come after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran and after US midterm elections that have weakened President Donald Trump at home.
A new security architecture
Part of the Trump administration's proposal is a new “long-term security architecture” between Russia and Europe. Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and a lead US negotiator, described it in general terms on Monday: the US would seek stronger consultation, reliable crisis communications, greater military transparency and reciprocal measures to reduce escalation risks, while fully respecting every nation's sovereignty.
A US official said Europe would be needed at the table to end the war. Among possible steps, he mentioned reviving the Nato-Russia council, suspended after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, and potentially lifting sanctions on Russia.
European states fear Russia will keep demanding that Nato scale back its military presence in eastern Europe. Delegations from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy and the European Union will meet US negotiators.
Guarantees for Ukraine
US officials claim they have discussed with Russia possible security guarantees for Ukraine similar to Nato's Article 5. Russia has strongly opposed Ukraine joining Nato and western troops being stationed there. Critics note that Article 5 does not oblige members to defend one another unconditionally.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas told a G7 foreign ministers' meeting that Europe already has a security architecture, but that Russia is not respecting its obligations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said some progress had been made, but that the conflict must be resolved first. Trump has previously said Ukraine would be expected to give up some territory.
