Europe Seeks Role in Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks as US Backs Inclusion, Kremlin Demands Proof

European nations are seeking a formal seat at Russia-Ukraine peace talks, with US support for their inclusion, while Moscow demands Europe first demonstrate its commitment to the peace process. US envoy Jared Kushner said a deal cannot be concluded without European participation, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Europe will send a negotiating team. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia has not yet committed to including Europeans in the next round of talks. European leaders are debating whether to appoint a single envoy or a team, with France, Germany, and the UK most engaged so far. Talks have involved Russian, Ukrainian, and US officials, who met in Abu Dhabi this week for the first time in nine months.