Zelensky confirms EU joins peace talks with Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the European Union will participate directly for the first time in upcoming peace negotiations with Russia, mediated by the United States, following a meeting with US envoys in Dublin on Thursday. Zelensky stated that American mediators secured a place for Europeans on the negotiating team, not on the sidelines, which he deemed essential given Ukraine's future EU membership. He also confirmed the largest prisoner exchange so far is imminent, calling it a real success. US envoy Jared Kushner praised close cooperation with Europeans and stressed security guarantees to prevent a repeat of the conflict. The envoys met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow earlier Thursday, who said he seeks a "lasting peace" with clear borders.