Name? Jared Kushner
Westphalian identity? U.S. American
Age? 45
Why is he in the news? Son-in-law of U.S. president Donald Trump and Special Envoy of the United States Jared Kushner touched down in Abu Dhabi today to mediate Russia and Ukraine’s first trilateral negotiations since February. Today was day one of two, and talks reportedly went on for four hours.
Why do we care? Although already planned, the timing of these negotiations are significant for three reasons: Republicans in the U.S. recently faced a crushing defeat in the midterm legislative elections; this is Kushner’s first major appearance since the U.S. launched its military campaign against Iran; and it is also concurrent with a G7 ministerial meeting in Paris. As the Trump Administration nears its end, so does Kushner’s opportunity to reinforce his and his country’s roles as harbingers of peace (à la carte).
Why should you care? According to most of those involved, the talks themselves are not showing much promise. While it is good that interests are being divulged, the parties’ interests remain diametrically opposed. It is interesting to note, however, that regardless of all the talk of its recession into isolationist obscurity, Kushner—and therefore the United States—is still the only actor bringing others to the table, and is perceived as the primary potential security guarantor of a Russian-Ukrainian peace.
Who else cares? Russian President Vladimir Putin is less than keen on peace. As the war’s fifth winter approaches, he has the opportunity to further weaken Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure and to keep pushing for potential political gains. Unable to shift the frontlines, Putin is putting pressure on Ukraine by attacking cities directly. In the face of potential Western security guarantees for Ukraine, Putin will likely demand territory in return.
Any further comments? European and NATO representatives in Abu Dhabi held talks with the U.S. and Ukrainian delegations previous to today’s kick-off. The Russian delegation refused to do the same.
