The timing of future trilateral discussions concerning a settlement of the Ukraine conflict is contingent upon developments in the Middle East and other unspecified factors, according to Yuri Ushakov, a foreign policy advisor to the Kremlin. This statement raises doubts about the feasibility of proposed talks scheduled for next month.
Ushakov, as reported by Russian news agencies, indicated that Moscow has not yet put forth a specific date for the negotiations. This comes despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's expressed hope for a meeting in Abu Dhabi between November 6 and November 10.
Referring to the regional implications of the conflict involving the United States and Israel, Ushakov stated, "It will also depend on the situation on the battlefield and the situation in general. You can see the situation now in the Middle East. It just doesn't allow us to hold it in the near future. That's my assumption."
Furthermore, Ushakov clarified that there have been no discussions regarding the inclusion of European negotiators in the upcoming round of talks. This statement contrasts with recent declarations from the leaders of Britain, Germany, and France, who suggested that Europe would assume a role in U.S.-mediated negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire between Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Zelenskyy.
Ushakov asserted, "There is absolutely no talk about this, nothing being considered." He elaborated that the existing agreement pertains to "resuming three-sided consultations with representatives of Russia, Ukraine and the United States." The U.S. has been leading mediation efforts for the conflict, which has been ongoing for four and a half years, while European nations, significant military backers of Ukraine, have largely remained on the periphery.
Earlier in the week, Ushakov had suggested that European involvement in discussions could be crucial. However, in comments made on Wednesday, he noted that the potential participation of European countries was not a topic of discussion during President Putin's recent phone conversation with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
