EU leaders leave Ukraine talks representation undecided

European Union leaders left Dublin without deciding who should represent Europe in possible Ukraine peace talks, as foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged them to prioritise a ceasefire and choose a strong negotiating team. Russia has not confirmed whether it would accept European participation in expanded-format talks.

Kallas said discussions about Russia’s proposals to change Europe’s wider security arrangements should not displace efforts to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine. She argued that turning first to those security questions would divert attention from the absence of a ceasefire, and described that prospect as a Russian trap.

The EU leaders’ debate also focused on whether the bloc should appoint one envoy or be represented by a team. Kallas presented herself as a logical representative, citing her role as the EU’s foreign policy chief and a 2024 decision by leaders on who represents the bloc on foreign and security policy. She said Russia did not want her at the talks, but that it should not determine Europe’s choice.

European Council President António Costa said Europe should work as a team and speak with one voice. He described the EU institutions and the Coalition of...