Lavrov mocks Europeans at Abu Dhabi talks: “Let them sit in the hotel”

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke contemptuously about the Europeans taking part in the Abu Dhabi talks: “They flew to Abu Dhabi, so let them sit quietly in the hotel.” European representatives remain outside the door of the Ukraine negotiations, and Lavrov himself did not go to Abu Dhabi, staying in Moscow.

According to Lavrov, the American side told Russia that its negotiators first want to consult the Europeans before the three-way meeting. “Apparently to catch their lively spirit and their desire for lasting peace,” he added sarcastically. Russia, he said, does not consider consultations with the Europeans promising, but cannot stop the Americans from holding them.

Who came and who was kept out

Germany, Britain, France, Italy, the European Union and NATO sent their representatives to Abu Dhabi. Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, said that the European partners will for now only be kept informed as the talks go on. Asked why the Europeans were not admitted to the talks, Lavrov snapped back with the same disdain: “Are you suggesting we shoot down planes?”

Since the United States under Trump sharply reduced its aid to Ukraine, Europe has become by far Kyiv's largest political, military and financial backer.

Territory and a ceasefire

Disagreements between Moscow and Kyiv persist, notably over the key question of territory. Russia demands sweeping concessions from Ukraine, above all in the eastern regions. Ukraine refuses to give up voluntarily the land its army still controls. Shortly before the current talks, Trump hinted that after a peace deal Ukraine might look “somewhat different.”

Even before the talks began, Lavrov said Russia would not accept the European ceasefire proposal: in his view, a pause in fighting would give Ukraine only a “breather” to rearm. Moscow instead demands a “comprehensive agreement” on Europe's future security arrangements. Yet European states' representatives are missing from the table.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul admitted that he is “not entirely satisfied” with the situation and demanded that Europe be invited to the talks. The talks are due to continue until Wednesday.

Around Prague, based on reporting by novinky.cz