France asserts European role in Ukraine peace negotiations

The French presidency has stated that no agreement regarding the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict or European security can be reached without the involvement of Europeans. This declaration comes as negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, held under United States auspices, continue in Abu Dhabi.

While European representatives are present in Abu Dhabi, reports indicate they have remained on the margins of the trilateral talks. France, leading a group of European nations, aims to influence the discussions to prevent any agreement that might disproportionately favor Russian demands.

Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov confirmed that an initial meeting took place in the United Arab Emirates involving representatives from European states, the European Union, and NATO, alongside American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The meeting sought to align positions before official negotiations proceed. European involvement is being coordinated through the E3 format, comprising France, the United Kingdom, and Germany, with additional representation from Italy and various European institutions.