Russia’s delegation changed its tone during negotiations with Ukraine and the United States in Abu Dhabi as Moscow seeks to slow down the militarization of the European Union, Politico reported, citing an unnamed former Ukrainian official who continues to advise the Ukrainian president’s office.

According to the source, if the conflict ends, European leaders will find it far more difficult to explain to their voters the need to increase defense spending. Moscow, the source says, is counting on this factor by adjusting the approach of its negotiating team.

The source notes that a peace agreement and the end of the war could significantly weaken the political and public momentum behind militarization, as persuading voters to accept economic and social sacrifices for higher defense budgets would become much harder.

The interlocutor also stated that the Russian delegation is acting professionally and is actively working through the practical details of a settlement. In addition, an anonymous US Republican Party foreign policy expert who previously worked with Ukrainian authorities told journalists that the talks in the United Arab Emirates have become noticeably more constructive.

Trilateral negotiations involving representatives of Russia, the United States, and Ukraine were held behind closed doors in Abu Dhabi on January 23 and 24. The next round of talks is scheduled to begin on February 4. The composition of the Russian delegation will remain unchanged and will again be led by Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff.