France to send representative to 2-day UAE peace talks

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced on Friday that France will attend the upcoming negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. The meetings are scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on November 10 and 11.

Speaking on radio station RTL, Barrot stated that France will be present at the negotiating table. He noted that European governments will be represented in the discussions, although he did not name the specific official who will travel to the UAE.

Barrot said, “France will arrive in Abu Dhabi to participate in these discussions. I cannot yet say who will represent France at this meeting, but France will undoubtedly be there.” The minister emphasized that Europe will be fittingly represented in the talks.

The US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff previously confirmed the trilateral format for the November 10 and 11 session. The agenda will focus on further steps toward peace in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump announced a “big agreement” following a private meeting on November 5 with Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy from Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. Trump said the agreement would concern Ukraine, Russia, and the rest of Europe.

Barrot argued that European voices have become prominent in recent diplomacy. He stated that Europeans have made it clear to the American mediator that the future of the continent cannot be discussed without considering their expectations and demands. Barrot described Europe as the party most directly affected by the war and its eventual settlement.

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has urged allies to consider the security interests of Eastern Europe during these negotiations. The French participation signals that the Abu Dhabi talks will include a European presence beyond the initial three-party announcement.