Vladimir Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, revealed details during a press conference in Brussels regarding European countries’ plans to establish a new diplomatic framework for negotiations with Russia. This framework will aim to represent and defend Ukraine’s interests in the conflict resolution process. Zelenskyy emphasised that this does not mean the United States will be sidelined from the process — European negotiations will run in parallel with American efforts.
The US, which has long been the leader in diplomatic efforts to resolve the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, has recently stepped up its efforts. In September 2026, US representatives Steve Whitcroft and Jared Kushner visited Moscow and Kyiv with the aim of resuming peace talks; however, according to reports, these efforts did not yield significant results.
European leaders are also showing a willingness to play an active role in the search for a diplomatic solution. Despite this, no announcement has yet been made regarding the creation of a dedicated post for a European negotiator. This may indicate the EU’s desire to act collectively whilst maintaining flexibility in its approach.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin continues to claim that it is the European countries that are allegedly trying to drag out the conflict. At the same time, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump, accused Ukraine of failing to make sufficient efforts to achieve progress in the peace talks.
Experts at the US Institute for the Study of War note that Russia has so far shown no willingness to engage in constructive dialogue or compromise, banking on Ukraine capitulating. This adds complexity to diplomatic efforts and underlines the need for a multilateral approach in the search for peace.