🔗 Share this article US Mediates Ukraine Discussions in Abu Dhabi as White House Pushes for Settlement High-level discussions including American, Russian, and Kyiv representatives commenced in the United Arab Emirates this week, representing the latest phase in attempts to broker a ceasefire deal to conclude the continuing hostilities in the region. Key Representatives and Opening Discussions American military Secretary the US representative reportedly conferred with a Russian delegation on the eve of the talks, with dialog proceeding into the following day. “The talks are going well and we remain optimistic. Secretary Driscoll is closely synchronised with the White House ... as these talks progress,” his spokesperson remarked. Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, the head of military intelligence, was also expected to take part in the meetings, though it remained unclear whether direct talks with Moscow’s delegates would occur or if separate one-on-one sessions would be conducted. Membership of the Russian delegation was uncertain. “No comment is available. We are following the media reports,” a Russian representative told state media. Background and Updated Proposal These meetings follow prior discussions in Switzerland where US and Ukrainian officials modified a preliminary US plan for ending the conflict. Russia has not yet accepted the most recent version of the proposal and is not expected to accept many of the Ukrainian revisions. Moscow’s top diplomat, the Russian diplomat, stated that any amended agreement must adhere to the “intent and text” of what was covered during earlier high-level meetings between the two countries. International Reactions and Concerns EU officials are apparently finding it difficult to stay engaged in the negotiations as US representatives take the lead. Finland’s president, Alexander Stubb, who has stepped forward as a key contact between the US and EU leaders, stated that the next few days would be crucial in efforts to secure a resolution. He allegedly spoke with the Ukrainian president and Nato representatives, emphasizing that “The future of Ukraine is for Ukraine to decide, and with European security falling under Europe’s purview.” Meanwhile, the France’s leader, the French official, warned against a settlement that would amount to a “surrender” for the nation. “Terms presented suggest what Russia could agree to. But does this imply it should be endorsed by Ukraine and Europe? Certainly not,” he stated. Specifics of the Original US Plan The US plan was reportedly made up of 28 points and was based on discussions between US and Russian officials, with input from Kyiv security officials. Major elements of the plan reportedly involved: The nation ceding areas presently occupied by Russia Further regions that would be required to be willingly given up Limits on the size of the Ukrainian army Amnesty for all participants in the war regarding violations Recent Developments and Ongoing Challenges American representative allegedly went to Kyiv to inform the Ukrainian president on the proposal and demand quick approval. The pressure, combined with the leaking of the proposal, reportedly shocked Ukrainian and European officials. The Ukrainian president reportedly that the country was facing one of the most difficult periods in its existence and was being compelled to choose between “losing our dignity or losing a key ally.” Later, the US official briefed alliance representatives on the plan in Kyiv, with one attendee describing it as “a nightmare meeting” and noting that European ambassadors were stunned by both the content and tone of the presentation. The US administration later softened its stance, stating that the 28-point plan was an “starting position for talks” rather than a definitive demand. Security Situation During Talks As peace talks continue, Moscow has continued its regular strikes on Ukrainian cities. Russian forces reportedly fired dozens of projectiles and many of drones at targets in and around Kyiv, as stated by Ukrainian reports. The Ukrainian president emphasized that Moscow must not feel it could prevail in the conflict while negotiations were ongoing. “What matters most now is that all partners move toward diplomacy together, through joint efforts. Measures against Russia need to produce tangible effects,” he stated. The capital’s leader confirmed that seven people had been killed in the overnight assault on the city.