Rubio: Abu Dhabi talks yield progress, but deal is not imminent

The first round of trilateral peace negotiations in Abu Dhabi concluded on November 10 without a final agreement.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters in Paris that the talks between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia were very productive. However, he cautioned that a comprehensive peace deal is not close to being signed. Rubio stated, "Obviously there is a lot of work to be done. It's not something that is on the verge of being solved in the next 24 hours."

The American delegation is prioritizing the expansion of the negotiation framework to include European nations directly. Rubio explained that the current administration aims to move beyond a strictly trilateral format. By placing European representatives at the table, Washington seeks to strengthen the durability of any future agreements, given the continent's direct exposure to the conflict.

When asked about the sincerity of Russian negotiators, Rubio described the current diplomatic phase as a test of Moscow's intentions. "Well, that's what we're testing," he said. He indicated that the talks serve as a practical assessment of the other side's commitment to ending the war.

Sources indicated that the November 10 session focused on security guarantees and specific demands made by Russia. The parties also discussed the post-war future for Ukraine. These topics will remain central to the ongoing dialogue. Prior to the main trilateral session, US, Ukrainian, and European officials met on the morning of November 10 to coordinate their positions. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff provided an update on this preparatory meeting, which aimed to align efforts toward ending the war and structuring post-war security arrangements.

Negotiations are scheduled to resume on the morning of November 11 in Abu Dhabi. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been in brief communication with the Ukrainian delegation to review progress from the first session. The United States is acting as a mediator to facilitate dialogue between the belligerents and their allies, aiming to create a structured environment for a comprehensive peace deal.

The upcoming sessions in Abu Dhabi will address the technical and political aspects of the conflict. The success of the talks depends on the willingness of all sides to make compromises and build trust through consistent dialogue.