BRUSSELS, Nov 10 (Bernama-dpa) -- The United States has reaffirmed its support for NATO and plans for credible security guarantees for Ukraine, reported German Press Agency (dpa).
A statement released in Abu Dhabi by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and the European Union (EU) shortly before Ukraine-Russia talks began on Tuesday said the parties had reaffirmed their commitment to a strong European security architecture and appropriate arrangements for the post-war period.
The statement also made clear that a strong NATO would continue to play a central role in Euro-Atlantic collective defence.
Any future arrangements must provide for credible security guarantees for Ukraine and respect the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity and freedom to make its own decisions, the statement said.
The shared aim was to work towards broader multilateral talks involving European partners and to secure a comprehensive and lasting peace.
The statement was released after a meeting between the US negotiating team and representatives of Ukraine, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, NATO and the EU.
The meeting was organised before of the start of US-mediated talks between Ukraine and Russia.
"Talks between the European partners, Ukraine and the United States took place in a spirit of co-operation and reflected shared objectives, ongoing consultations and their commitment to Euro-Atlantic security," the statement said.
The discussions focused on how to ensure effective mechanisms for managing risks and preventing dangerous escalation, as well as how to build on existing European security institutions and arrangements once the war in Ukraine ends.
-- BERNAMA-dpa