EU leaders agree on joint team to represent Europe in Ukraine peace talks

EU leaders have reached an agreement on forming a unified team to represent Europe in the ongoing peace negotiations in Ukraine, according to a press conference by European Council President António Costa. The statement was made in response to a meeting where the security of Ukraine was emphasized as the foundation of Europe's security. The team for the negotiations will consist of the European Union institutions and the E5 countries comprising the Coalition of the Willing.

Costa reiterated that Europe will maintain a consistent stance throughout these talks, advocating for a coordinated and unified voice in all discussions regarding Ukraine's future and the continent's security. He highlighted that Ukraine holds the legitimate authority to decide on issues concerning its territory and sovereignty, while the EU plays a central role in discussions about Ukraine's European integration, reconstruction, and prosperity.

Security assurances were to be addressed within the Coalition of the Willing, in close coordination with NATO. Meanwhile, Russia was urged to change its approach, which has currently led to further escalation. Costa emphasized that at the upcoming European Council meeting on November 26-27, leaders will deliberate on Ukraine's financial requirements for the upcoming year and beyond, based on proposals from the European Commission.

Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, expressed concern that Russia would not support her as a representative of Europe and stressed that Europe should prevent Russia from dictating the composition of the negotiating team.