U.S. to mediate Ukraine-Russia talks aimed at brokering "next steps toward peace," U.S. envoy Witkoff says

Key Points:

• The U.S. will mediate working-level talks between Ukrainian and Russian officials on November 10-11 in Abu Dhabi, focusing on post-war security, de-escalation, humanitarian efforts, and steps toward peace, according to U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff.
• American negotiators will also meet with European allies and NATO members to discuss future security guarantees for Ukraine, a key demand from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for any peace deal with Russia.
• Previous U.S.-mediated talks have resulted in limited agreements, but fundamental issues remain unresolved, as Russia insists on Ukraine accepting its annexation of seized territories, which Ukraine and many European allies reject.
• The announcement follows a brief, localized cease-fire in Kherson that allowed humanitarian aid and evacuations but ended Sunday, with ongoing Russian attacks causing significant casualties and damage across Ukraine.
• Russia reported conducting a large-scale strike on Ukrainian energy and port infrastructure, while Moscow claimed to have destroyed 500 Ukrainian drones targeting the capital overnight.