European representatives are set to join the forthcoming peace negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, according to U.S. envoy Jared Kushner. This development follows Kushner’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where discussions were described as detailed and productive.
Speaking in Dublin alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Kushner emphasized the necessity of European involvement, stating that a peace agreement cannot be finalized without the participation of European countries. The inclusion of European representatives in the next round of talks highlights the importance of their role in shaping any potential resolution to the conflict.
Zelensky expressed approval of this decision, underscoring the significance of European countries having a voice in negotiations due to the war’s location in Europe. He also announced that Russia had agreed to a prisoner exchange, which could become the largest of its kind, with thousands of soldiers potentially returning to their families.
The announcement came after U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Kushner briefed Zelensky following their Moscow discussions. The involvement of European leaders in the negotiations aligns with recent calls for a united front on Ukraine’s future security. French President Emmanuel Macron has advocated for greater European responsibility in supporting Ukraine, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the importance of bringing Putin to the negotiating table.
Zelensky further urged European leaders to remain vigilant against efforts to alter the continent’s security arrangements without their input. He also called for continued progress on Ukraine’s negotiations for European Union membership, reinforcing the country’s aspirations for closer ties with Europe.