Europe's E5 Nations to Represent Continent in Ukraine Peace Talks

European representatives will join the next round of Ukraine peace talks, following a late Thursday announcement by US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff after days of shuttle diplomacy. The decision addresses long-standing European demands for inclusion in negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the US. A political decision has been made for the E5 countries—France, Italy, Poland, Britain, and Germany—along with EU institutions to represent Europe. These five nations are Europe's largest military powers, and their role stems from the "coalition of the willing," which includes 34 countries supporting Ukraine's defense. Russia has not confirmed accepting European participation, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitrij Peskov saying a decision will come after understanding their intentions. Former Norwegian ambassador Kåre Aas doubts Russia wants peace now, emphasizing the need for stronger US pressure on Putin through sanctions and military aid.