EU picks six representatives for Ukraine peace talks

EU leaders agreed Friday that Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and EU officials will represent Europe in future Ukraine peace talks, aiming to present a unified position despite Russia's refusal to commit to including Kyiv's backers. The decision came after US envoys said Russian President Vladimir Putin had approved European participation, though the Kremlin later demanded clarity on Europe's "real intentions" before confirming. European Council chief Antonio Costa stressed Europe must speak with "one clear and united voice" in shaping Ukraine's future and continental security. Russia seeks to renegotiate Europe's broader security framework, including rolling back NATO, but German Chancellor Friedrich Merz rejected this, saying the architecture already exists. EU officials warned against Russian "traps" and prioritized a ceasefire, while Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin noted no signs yet that Russia is serious about peace.