Germany to join Ukraine peace talks, Merz confirms

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany will participate in substantive peace negotiations on Ukraine expected to begin in the coming weeks, with Europe represented at the table. Merz stated on Friday at an informal EU summit in Dublin that negotiations cannot proceed without Kyiv or Europe, emphasizing Germany's clear participation. Security guarantees for Ukraine will be the main topic, with the format potentially resembling this week's Abu Dhabi talks involving Germany, France, Britain, Italy, and the EU. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirmed Europe will have a voice in future talks, while Moscow sent mixed signals, with Kremlin spokesman Peskov saying no decision on expanding the format has been made. Merz also urged Washington to coordinate with European allies ahead of next week's US-Russia-China leaders' meeting, and announced a "coalition of the willing" gathering in Berlin on November 19 with over 20 heads of state.