European allies press Rubio for a role in Russia-Ukraine talks
European foreign ministers have told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Europe must have a say in any deal to end Russia's war on Ukraine, as US-mediated peace talks begin in Abu Dhabi.
The appeal was made on Monday during a meeting of G7 foreign ministers in Paris, which includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. The meeting coincides with the US-mediated Russia-Ukraine talks scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday in Abu Dhabi.
Security concerns
The gathering marked Rubio's first meeting with allies since last week's midterm elections, where President Trump's Republican Party suffered significant losses. Allies used the opportunity to voice concerns about Trump's rhetoric regarding a new security architecture for Europe.
It is certainly neither necessary, nor right, nor appropriate to make a fundamental change to Europe's security architecture.
European stance
Wadephul emphasized Europe's essential role in any peace process, stating: "Europe belongs at this table. There can be no solution without Europe – only with Europe." He questioned Russia's commitment to genuine negotiations, urging Moscow to abandon maximalist demands.
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who will join Tuesday's Paris session, declared: "No one has the right to decide our fate behind our backs." His comments reflect Ukraine's insistence on being directly involved in any discussions about its future.
Broader concerns
The Paris meeting reflects growing unease among G7 members about US policy, including reduced support for Ukraine, eased sanctions on Russia, and a more unilateral approach. Ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, South Korea and Brazil are also attending, with Iran expected to feature prominently in Tuesday's discussions.
Allies have expressed skepticism about the US and Israeli war on Iran, fearing further military action could exacerbate rather than resolve the crisis. Al Jazeera's Rebecca Collard noted that while the second day will address Middle East instability, the larger question concerns the future of multilateralism in international relations.
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