Putin sends a high‑ranking GRU general, Alexander Zorin, to Abu Dhabi for Ukraine talks, replacing a diplomat. The move signals Moscow’s shift to hard‑line tactics and reflects growing concern that conventional pressure has failed. Zorin, known for special operations in Syria and the Azovstal siege, joins the delegation alongside GRU chief Igor Kostyukov. The presence of GRU personnel, rather than Foreign Ministry officials, underscores the Kremlin’s view that the negotiations are critical and risky. Analysts say Zorin’s appearance indicates a crisis point, and that the United States’ willingness to apply economic, political and military pressure may have prompted Moscow to intensify its approach.
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