EU picks 5 nations plus Commission to join Ukraine peace talks

European Union leaders have selected five major countries—France, Germany, the UK, Poland, and Italy—alongside European Council and Commission representatives to negotiate on Ukraine's behalf, resolving a long-standing dispute. The decision follows pressure from the US and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. NATO's participation remains uncertain, with European Council President Antonio Costa stating security guarantees should be handled by the "coalition of the willing" in coordination with NATO. The informal summit in Dublin also addressed Ukraine's request for €45 billion in additional funding, which faces opposition from several member states. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz threatened to block the EU budget if the loan isn't financed by all 27 members.