EU picks five states for Russia talks on Ukraine

The EU has agreed on a negotiating team to represent Europe in Ukraine peace talks with Russia, consisting of EU institutions and five member states: Germany, Britain, France, Italy, and Poland. The decision was announced after an informal EU summit in Dublin. EU Council President António Costa confirmed the team will include the European Commission and the Council, with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating the EU will support Ukraine and protect its interests. The US signaled Russia's readiness to include European partners in the next negotiation round, according to US envoy Jared Kushner. The German government welcomed the decision, saying it confirms its previous negotiating approach. The agreement resolves a dispute over representation, as smaller states favored EU officials while larger members like Germany and Italy sought direct participation.