US to seek Putin’s ‘blessing’ for Europe to join Ukraine talks

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1. 2h ago

   US Envoys Seek Putin Approval for European Participation in Ukraine Talks

   United States envoys are traveling to Moscow to seek Russian President Vladimir Putin's approval for European representation in ongoing negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Recent talks concerning post-war security concluded without a breakthrough, as Russian officials maintained hard-line positions and revived demands for NATO to retrench. Meanwhile, European capitals are currently negotiating internally to determine who will speak for the continent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed satisfaction with messages received from United States envoys regarding diplomatic efforts, while separately warning that a newly floated European security framework could ultimately benefit Putin.

   Why it matters

   The diplomatic push follows intense discussions centering on the broader European security order and long-term peace terms. Russia continues to push for limits on NATO infrastructure as a precondition for any deal, forcing European powers to scramble for a direct seat at the negotiating table. The United States strategy of seeking clearance from Moscow for European involvement adds a complex layer of diplomacy to an already fragile peace process.

   What is confirmed

   • Trump envoys are scheduled to meet with Vladimir Putin in Moscow after the latest round of Ukraine talks ended without a breakthrough.
   • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he is pleased with messages from United States envoys regarding diplomatic efforts to end the war.
   • Russia and Ukraine recently agreed to a large exchange of prisoners of war.
   • Russian officials have revived demands that NATO retrench in order to secure a deal on Ukraine.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The United States has suggested a new security framework for Europe that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned could benefit Putin.

   What to watch next

   • The outcome of the meetings between United States envoys and Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
   • Decisions from European leaders regarding who will represent the continent in negotiations with Russia.
   • Any formal response from Moscow regarding European participation in the peace talks.
   Sources used for this update (16)

   1. timesofindia.indiatimes.com — Saudi Arabia Turns To Iran Amid Houthi Strikes, Dealing Trump A Major Gulf Blow? - Times of India Videos
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   6. U.S. Department of State (.gov) — Secretary of State Marco Rubio Remarks to the Press
   7. Reuters — Ukraine's Zelenskiy says he is pleased with messages from US envoys on diplomatic efforts to end war
   8. The Guardian — Ukraine’s Zelenskyy ‘happy’ with US envoys’ approach as Russia talks enter second day – Europe live
   9. CNN — Trump envoys to meet Putin in Moscow after latest Ukraine talks end without a breakthrough
   10. politico.eu — US to seek Putin’s ‘blessing’ for Europe to join Ukraine talks
   11. NPR — Russia and Ukraine agree to a large exchange of prisoners of war, officials say
   12. BBC — Russia-Ukraine talks turn to post-war security but end without breakthrough
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