Ukraine proposes resuming peace talks without the United States
Ukraine is proposing to revive the E3 European diplomatic format, involving the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, for potential peace talks.
This is reported by The Telegraph.
According to diplomatic sources, the Ukrainian side no longer views the U.S. as an effective mediator in the negotiation process. In this regard, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly sees potential in strengthening Europe’s role through the E3 format.
As noted, the head of state has already discussed this idea with French President Emmanuel Macron during a phone call, proposing to “infuse the format with additional substance.”
Sources in European diplomatic circles confirm that consultations on the possible resumption of E3 activities are ongoing, but there are currently no concrete agreements on direct contacts with Russia.
It is also reported that the Ukrainian side is seeking to have its European partners convey to the Kremlin the position that peace talks are necessary, which, in Kyiv’s view, could serve Russia’s own interests.
Separately, sources note that one tool for exerting pressure could be the intensification of Russia’s international isolation, particularly through restrictions on the mobility of its citizens and a decline in public trust in the country’s leadership.
The E3 format is an informal mechanism for cooperation between the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, established in 2003 for negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program.
Over time, it began to be used more broadly—to coordinate positions on sanctions, security, and international crises, particularly in the Middle East.
The European Union is discussing the possible appointment of a special mediator for contacts with Russia, and Angela Merkel is among the leading candidates. Mario Draghi and Alexander Stubb are also being considered, but no final decision has been made yet due to disagreements among diplomats.
It should be noted that Merkel is being considered as a potential mediator in negotiations between the EU and Russia.
Berlin has called theRussian Federation’s proposal regarding Schröder’s mediation a fiction.
