Instead of a single representative, a whole team: Europe decides who will represent it in talks with Russia to end the war

On the night of a significant attack, Ukraine launched nearly 1,200 drones at Russian targets, marking one of the largest aerial assaults since Russia's full-scale invasion five years prior. Concurrently, U.S. and Russian negotiators engaged in discussions to broaden the scope of their peace talks to encompass broader European security arrangements, a demand long-standing among Moscow but met with apprehension from European leaders.

The prospect of NATO's future role in these negotiations has become a contentious issue. After days of negotiations, U.S. envoys briefed Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signaling a continued push for resolution. The discussions centered on addressing not just territorial disputes but also postwar European security arrangements, a move that has been welcomed by European leaders weary of being sidelined in the U.S.-led talks.

Despite Russia's initial reluctance to include Europe in the talks, the Russian side eventually agreed, marking a significant shift in diplomatic posture. European leaders, however, remain cautious, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire before delving into the broader security discussions. The prospect of European involvement in these negotiations could reshape the dynamics of the ongoing conflict, potentially altering the trajectory of peace efforts in Ukraine.