Zelensky says ‘coordinated positions’ with EU chief ahead of Abu Dhabi talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has communicated with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to align their positions ahead of upcoming US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi. The trilateral format, involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, is under scrutiny as European powers aim to ensure any settlement in the Russian war on Ukraine is equitable and does not result in Washington providing Moscow new security guarantees over Europe's head.

Zelensky stated that efforts are underway to make the trilateral format yield results, emphasizing coordination with the EU. The European Commission confirmed the EU's participation alongside partners for the Abu Dhabi talks, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday. An EU official disclosed that national security officials from the EU, NATO, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom would be present, though the specific involvement remains uncertain.

The Kremlin maintains that the talks will continue in the Ukraine-Russia-US format, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noting separate channels of communication between the Ukrainians and Europeans, as well as the Americans and Europeans. US President Donald Trump and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, have raised concerns about a potential US pivot towards Russia, predicting a significant deal involving Ukraine and all of Europe.

Kushner recently discussed Washington's work on a broader European security architecture during a video link meeting with European, Ukrainian, and NATO officials in Brussels.