Zelensky welcomes European role in Russia talks, urges unblocking peace process

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the news that European officials will participate in the next round of US-mediated peace talks with Russia, expressing hope the agenda will include steps toward a ceasefire and de-escalation. Zelensky spoke after meeting US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Dublin, following the envoys' earlier talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. He stressed the importance of unblocking the peace process and confirmed plans to work on a de-escalation agenda. Witkoff announced a new round of talks with European participation will soon take place in Abu Dhabi. Zelensky also stated that a prisoner exchange, described as the largest of the war, will occur.