France Confirms European Role at Abu Dhabi Talks

France has affirmed its involvement in upcoming US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi, aimed at ending the Ukraine war, according to Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. Speaking on RTL radio, Barrot stated that Europe will be represented during the negotiations, with France specifically participating. This comes after President Donald Trump expressed concerns about a potential US pivot towards Russia, suggesting a "very big" deal involving not only Ukraine but "all of Europe".

Currently, the talks are being framed as a trilateral format between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, though the identities of participants have not been disclosed. President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the importance of European allies' involvement, while Russia has denied any role for European representatives. Earlier this week, officials from the US, Europe, Ukraine, and NATO convened in Brussels to discuss advancing a sustainable end to the war.

During this meeting, Jared Kushner, the US president's son-in-law and envoy, highlighted the US' efforts to establish a secure Europe conducive to lasting peace. The American approach, however, has raised skepticism among European allies who have traditionally opposed Moscow's efforts to reshape the European security architecture.

Earlier in the year, Russia issued an ultimatum to NATO, demanding the withdrawal of its troops from Eastern Europe, which was rejected by the Western alliance. Kushner emphasized that the United States will consult closely with European partners during the Abu Dhabi talks and, should progress be made, aim to transition to a broader multilateral format with their direct participation.