Ukraine war: Merz talks to Trump about Ukraine

US President Donald Trump claimed he met privately with Russian President Vladimir Putin's envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, after the Russian official joined Ukrainian representatives at a White House event organized by Melania Trump. Trump did not disclose the specifics of his conversation with Dmitriev, but suggested a deal could be reached soon to resolve the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine.

A US delegation is set to mediate talks in Abu Dhabi from November 10-11 between Russia and Ukraine. Trump stated that the conflict is nearing a resolution and the agreement might extend beyond Ukraine, potentially involving all of Europe. He reiterated his belief that an agreement is "close", despite negotiations ramping up in recent weeks.

Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and adviser, revealed that US officials on Thursday held constructive discussions with Ukraine, NATO, and European partners in Brussels, focusing on security guarantees for Ukraine and a broader European security framework. The discussions covered five key objectives: permanent security consultations, reliable crisis communications, increased military transparency, mitigating escalation risks, and a lasting framework for European security and stability.

These proposals must honor the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independent decision-making of all nations involved. Dmitriev attended a rare face-to-face event with Ukrainian officials at the White House, marking a six-day ceasefire first brokered by Melania Trump in the Russian-controlled city of Oleshky. The deal concluded on Sunday.

Melania Trump described the event as an occasion where "we have chosen humanity over war," emphasizing the need to utilize their combined efforts to find common ground amid the suffering of innocent people. She highlighted her involvement in every stage of the ceasefire planning, including reviewing aerial imagery and assessing infrastructure.

Both Trump and Ukrainian officials presented gifts to Melania Trump, who received a drawing of pink hearts from a local child and a state award for her "brave heart" in aiding Ukrainian children. This marked the first in-person contact between Russian and US officials since the recent midterm elections, which resulted in a Democratic majority in Congress.

The incoming Democratic administration is anticipated to advocate for increased Ukrainian aid and scrutinize Trump's decisions, including his recent strike on a Russian diesel deal and easing sanctions on Moscow.