European officials join US Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi

France confirms European presence

Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told RTL radio that France will be present to ensure Europe's voice is heard. This announcement contradicts earlier suggestions from Moscow that European representatives would have no place at the table. The summit aims to end the war through a trilateral format involving officials rather than national leaders. Jared Kushner, the US president's envoy, participated in preparatory meetings via videolink before the main event.

Preparations and security concerns

Officials from the United States, Europe, Ukraine and NATO met in Brussels on Thursday to advance a just end to the conflict. Kushner stated Washington plans to consult with European partners closely during the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi discussions. The American envoy mentioned aiming for a broader multilateral format if progress is made during these initial negotiations. European allies have long rejected Moscow's demands regarding the withdrawal of alliance troops from eastern Europe.

Context of recent diplomacy

President Donald Trump previously warned of a potential deal involving all of Europe alongside the Ukraine war resolution. This prediction sparked fears among Western nations about a US pivot toward the Kremlin before the scheduled summit begins. Previous discussions sometimes excluded European nations but this time their inclusion is confirmed by French officials. The identities of specific attendees have not yet been made public to the outside world.