European leaders have formed a negotiating team involving five major European countries—France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom—alongside EU institutions, to participate in upcoming peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. This development was confirmed by European Council President António Costa following a meeting in Dublin on November 13.
The negotiating team, which will initially include national security advisers from the participating countries, aims to maintain a united European stance in discussions regarding Ukraine’s future and broader European security. Costa emphasized that decisions about Ukraine’s territory and sovereignty must remain under the control of the Ukrainian government.
The European team is expected to focus on providing security guarantees for Ukraine, facilitating its post-war reconstruction, and shaping its future relationship with the European Union. European leaders have also reiterated the importance of continued support for Kyiv and exerting stronger pressure on Moscow to achieve a peaceful resolution.
However, Russia’s acceptance of Europe’s involvement in the peace process is yet to be determined. The Kremlin has requested clarification on Europe’s intentions and its role in the negotiations. Additionally, there are significant disagreements over Europe’s security arrangements, with Russia seeking to reopen discussions about NATO’s military presence in Eastern Europe, a demand rejected by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
The role of EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in the negotiations is still unclear, despite her assertion that European foreign and security policy should be represented in the talks. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reiterated the necessity of continued assistance to Ukraine and sustained pressure on Russia to secure a lasting peace.
While diplomatic efforts continue, involving the United States, Russia, Ukraine, and European leaders, major differences persist, and Moscow has yet to show a willingness to compromise on its key demands.