European leaders are preparing to take a leading role in negotiations aimed at ending Russia's invasion of Ukraine, according to a spokesperson for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Stefan Kornelius stated that this initiative is gaining momentum in Europe following a meeting of leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, and the U.K. in London. He noted that while the U.S. has largely led the negotiation process, Europe is now continuing these efforts in coordination with the U.S.
The joint statement from Merz, along with the leaders of France, the U.K., and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasized the need for direct dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, with active participation from both U.S. and European representatives. They outlined five conditions for peace, including an immediate ceasefire and robust security guarantees for Ukraine. The statement also specified that negotiations should start from the current contact line between Russian and Ukrainian forces, and that Russian assets should remain frozen until the Kremlin ceases its aggression and compensates Ukraine.
Further discussions on the approach to peace talks are scheduled to take place at a G7 meeting in Evian and during a European Council summit in Brussels next week. Kornelius highlighted the necessity of broad support from European partners to advance towards peace. However, it remains uncertain whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will agree to engage in talks with European leaders, who have been excluded from direct negotiations despite their desire for a more significant role in resolving the conflict. Kornelius indicated that it may take weeks or months to bring Putin to the negotiation table, emphasizing that a strong Ukraine and pressure on Russia are essential for persuading Putin to negotiate.