Russian Foreign Ministry names conditions for Europe's participation in talks on Ukraine

Moscow's conditions for European participation

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told RIA Novostithat for Europe to become a 'sought-after factor in a peaceful settlement,' fundamental changes must occur not only in its policy but also in its practical actions. According to him, this is not happening today. Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry had already spoken of Europe 'cutting itself out' of the talks on Ukraine.

Paris's position and the format of the talks

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrotfor his part, stated that representatives of European countries would be present at the talks between Ukraine and Russia in Abu Dhabi. At the same time, he emphasized that until an agreement on a ceasefire and the establishment of peace is reached, there can be no discussions with Russia about European security.

What is known about the meeting in Abu Dhabi

Talks between representatives of Russia and Ukraine, mediated by the United States, are scheduled for November 10 and 11. This is the first meeting in a trilateral format after a break of almost nine months. The parties intend to discuss the terms of a cessation of hostilities, security guarantees, and humanitarian issues.

Divergence of positions

The statements by the two sides show a noticeable divergence: Moscow makes Europe's participation in the settlement contingent on a change in its policy, while Paris proceeds from the assumption that Europeans will already be represented at the talks and ties any discussion of European security to a prior ceasefire. What the actual participation of European representatives at the meeting in Abu Dhabi will be is not clear from the publications available at this time.