Eurotopics.net

Talks between Russian and Ukrainian representatives mediated by the US began in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. As a first step the two countries agreed on a new prisoner exchange. US President Trump had held out the prospect of a "very major" agreement that could affect "the whole of Europe". Although a European delegation is present, it is not sitting at the table – prompting a lively discussion among commentators.

Protests against the housing crisis are being staged in around 130 Spanish towns and cities today. The country's two largest trade unions have also organised a general strike. On Friday, the campaign for the snap general election on 29 November begins. The press looks at what role the protests will play in the run-up to the election.

The 31st UN Climate Change Conference began in Antalya, Turkey, on Monday. Over two weeks, delegates from around 200 countries will aim to reach an agreement on concrete climate protection measures to curb global warming as quickly as possible. Turkey is co-hosting COP31 with Australia. The press sees some signs that real progress can be made.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has accused German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of "blackmail" regarding further financial support for Ukraine. Merz has demanded that all EU countries without exception make a contribution and proposed that funding from the EU budget be linked to their backing for Ukraine. Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has also rejected Merz's proposal.

According to the latest results from the US midterm elections, the Democrats have won a majority in both houses of Congress. The press discusses the reasons for the Republicans' rout and how President Trump will react to the shift in the balance of power.