Zelenskyy Says Europe Will Seek Role in Upcoming Trilateral War Talks
The Ukrainian president stated that Kyiv will pursue peace negotiations in any format while working to include European partners in security guarantees.
By Sofia Ramirez ·
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Wednesday that Kyiv will pursue peace negotiations in any available format, even if European leaders are absent from the immediate talks.
Zelenskyy made these comments during a joint press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten. He described the upcoming discussions as a trilateral meeting involving the United States, Ukraine, and Russia. While he did not confirm that Europe would be excluded from the technical sessions, he emphasized that the continent must participate in the wider negotiation process.
The president characterized the trilateral structure as a previously blocked format that has now been reopened. He noted that Russia has not supported a European presence at these specific talks. However, Zelenskyy argued that European involvement is necessary for future security guarantees and reconstruction efforts. He stated, 'I do not see this happening without Europe.'
Zelenskyy explained that Kyiv is using every opportunity to move the process toward peace. He said that if the United States insists on a trilateral framework, Ukraine will not let that opportunity pass. The goal is to advance the process regardless of the specific composition of the table.
Background on the current diplomatic efforts includes a statement from Dmitry Ushakov, an aide to the Russian leader. Ushakov said the European side would not take part in the trilateral technical talks scheduled for next month. Zelenskyy has indicated that the meeting is expected to occur between November 6 and November 10. The final decision on whether this early November session proceeds rests with the United States.
Zelenskyy added that clarity is still needed regarding who will represent Europe in the broader negotiations to end the war. He also referenced a recent conversation between European leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to Zelenskyy, that dialogue has produced signs that Russia is serious about holding a meeting of negotiating teams in Abu Dhabi.
The president concluded that while the trilateral meeting is the immediate focus, Kyiv remains committed to finding a way to bring European partners into the fold. This approach aims to ensure that security guarantees and reconstruction plans are backed by the full range of interested parties.
