Europe to decide its own negotiator for Ukraine talks: EU ministers

European Union foreign ministers have said Russia will not decide who represents Europe in any potential peace negotiations over the Ukraine war,

European Union foreign ministers have said Russia will not decide who represents Europe in any potential peace negotiations over the Ukraine war, stressing that the bloc will act with a united position.

The remarks came during an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Cyprus, where officials discussed strategy for possible future talks aimed at ending the more than four-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas strongly rejected any suggestion that Moscow could influence Europe’s choice of representatives. She warned that such proposals could be a diplomatic “trap” designed to divide the European bloc.

Officials stressed that any negotiation process must be a collective effort, with clear agreement on Europe’s core demands before entering talks.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also said the decision on representation rests entirely with Europe, not Russia.

He emphasized that the European Union must present a unified stance in any future dialogue process.

While some ministers said discussions on a specific envoy are premature, others acknowledged that Europe may eventually need a designated representative if formal negotiations begin.

Lithuania’s foreign minister noted that the current priority is to increase pressure on Russia and continue supporting Ukraine militarily and politically.

Several diplomats said no formal decisions were expected from the Cyprus meeting, and there is still no consensus on negotiating terms or conditions for Moscow.

Despite differing views, ministers agreed on one key point: Europe must avoid fragmentation and maintain a single voice in any future peace process.

Some officials also indicated openness to appointing a special envoy in the future, provided member states reach agreement on mandate and responsibilities.

Kallas reiterated that, as EU foreign policy chief, she already represents the bloc, but stressed that unity among all member states is essential for any meaningful diplomatic engagement.

The discussions reflect growing uncertainty over the future format of Ukraine peace talks, as international attention shifts amid multiple global crises.