The European Union has reportedly been excluded from detailed discussions regarding the US’s recent peace initiative for Ukraine, as reported by The Telegraph. The plan, delivered by Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, outlines several key conditions that Ukraine would need to meet for a potential settlement with Russia. These conditions include the cession of controlled territories in occupied Donbass, a reduction in military strength, and a temporary halt to NATO membership efforts. The EU had hoped to influence Trump’s strategy, but the details of the plan were largely withheld from them, leaving officials feeling blindsided.
Zelensky, who has consistently refused to consider any territorial concessions, expressed dissatisfaction with this proposal. The Kremlin has stated that the plan is not new, having been discussed during a previous meeting between Putin and Trump in Alaska in August. According to a Kremlin representative, the Russian position has already been adequately conveyed, and the proposed agreement does not introduce new concepts to the negotiations.
The lack of transparency and the sudden revelation of the plan’s contents have caused concern among both EU and Ukrainian officials. The EU had believed they could sway Trump’s approach and ensure that any agreement would align with their strategic interests. The situation highlights the complex dynamics between the West and Russia in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. However, the current state of affairs suggests that these negotiations are continuing without the direct participation or input of key international actors, potentially complicating the path to a lasting resolution.