Zelenskyy Says Ukraine Will Secure European Role in War Talks
The Ukrainian president stated that Kyiv will not let the lack of a European seat at the upcoming trilateral technical meetings hinder the path toward peace.
By Elena Perry ·
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that his government will find a method to include Europe in the ongoing peace negotiations, even if European leaders are not present at the immediate technical talks. He made the remarks during a press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten. Zelenskyy confirmed that a trilateral meeting between the United States, Ukraine, and Russia is planned for early next month.
The current diplomatic timeline points to a technical gathering between November 6 and November 10. Russian aide Ushakov indicated that the European side would not participate in these specific talks. Zelenskyy did not directly confirm the absence of European representatives but acknowledged the format. He described the trilateral structure as a previously blocked arrangement that has now been unblocked.
Zelenskyy emphasized that the primary goal of these meetings is to advance the negotiation process toward peace. He explained that Kyiv is using every available opportunity to move forward. If the United States determines that only a trilateral meeting is possible, Ukraine intends to accept that format rather than delay the process. The president noted that moving the process forward is essential regardless of who is in the room.
Despite the current exclusion of European delegates from the technical group, Zelenskyy stressed that Europe will play a central role in future security guarantees. He stated that he does not see those guarantees happening without European involvement. The president also linked the negotiation process to the future reconstruction of Ukraine. He noted that Russia does not currently support European presence at the talks.
Zelenskyy mentioned that there are indications Russia is serious about holding a meeting of negotiating teams in Abu Dhabi. These signs emerged after conversations between European leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Ukrainian president added that the decision to hold the early November trilateral meeting ultimately depends on the United States. He said more clarity is needed on who will represent Europe in the broader negotiations.
Zelenskyy’s comments follow recent diplomatic efforts to coordinate positions among Western allies. The focus remains on ensuring that any agreement reached includes long-term security commitments. The technical talks are intended to lay the groundwork for higher-level discussions. Ukraine aims to maintain momentum in these negotiations while securing a defined role for its European partners.
