Negotiations in Abu Dhabi: Baltic States' Interests Conveyed to US Negotiators

"We received information late last night from representatives of Germany, who assured us that they clearly articulated the interests of the Baltics to the Americans. And, I think, this is a good sign," said Skaisgirite on Wednesday to LRT radio. According to her, although at this stage of the negotiations Russia does not wish to see European representatives at the negotiating table, Europeans are coordinating their positions with Washington. "European representatives are aligning and coordinating their actions with US representatives, which is good. In this sense, our positions are no longer diverging; they are being coordinated and agreed upon," noted the presidential advisor. On Tuesday, the first day of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, mediated by the US, concluded in Abu Dhabi. During the negotiations, Washington raised the issue of creating a new European security system amid concerns in Europe that US President Donald Trump might attempt to negotiate with Moscow regarding the future security of the continent. According to Skaisgirite, Russia seeks to return to the demands made by NATO in 2021 for a fundamental change in the architecture of European security; however, the Alliance's position on this issue remains unchanged. "In 2021, Russia was told 'no,' and in 2026, Russia will also be told 'no' on this," she said. The presidential advisor spoke positively about the resumption of negotiations but emphasized that it is too early to talk about possible agreements or concessions to Russia. According to her, a meeting of the 'Coalition of the Willing' is planned in Berlin in the second half of November, convened by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, where leaders will discuss the results of the negotiations in Abu Dhabi and further support for Ukraine. Skaisgirite also emphasized the need to maintain pressure on Moscow during the negotiations, including sanctions and international isolation. "Pressure on Russia must remain at the same level as before, namely: the isolation of Russia, sanctions – as broad as possible against Russia," said the presidential advisor. According to her, even in the event of a peace agreement, Russia's responsibility for aggression and war crimes will not disappear.