Europe sends diplomat team to Ukraine talks as leaders demand a voice

The European Union announced Friday that it will send a team of diplomats to Ukraine peace talks, with representation from the EU and five nations: the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Poland. The decision follows concerns that US-backed negotiations could sideline Europe and leave Ukraine vulnerable. European Council President Antonio Costa announced the plan after a Dublin summit focused on Europe's role in bolstering Ukraine and protecting its own security in talks with Moscow and Kyiv. Ukraine has sought European support, while Russia opposes direct European involvement in negotiations. The announcement comes as European leaders distrust US President Donald Trump's ability to negotiate on their behalf, with French President Emmanuel Macron stating that without Europeans, there is no support for Ukraine. A 40-nation declaration affirmed that peace decisions should involve Ukraine and that European security matters require European participation.