Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged European nations to participate in upcoming peace negotiations regarding the ongoing war with Russia. Speaking on October 27, Zelensky emphasized the necessity of including all European partners in discussions aimed at resolving the conflict.
His comments came as plans are underway for U.S.-mediated talks in November featuring representatives from Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. Zelensky stated, “We expect a trilateral format in November, with Ukrainian, American, and Russian representatives.” He reiterated the importance of European involvement in all diplomatic efforts, declaring, “No one should be left out of the process.”
Kyiv’s stance is clear: any resolution must consider not only Ukraine’s future but also the security concerns of European nations affected by the war. The negotiations are scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi in early November. Reports indicate that discussions will involve negotiating teams rather than a summit of the three presidents.
Nordic Leaders Engage with Putin
Zelensky’s appeal for European involvement followed a rare phone call on the same day between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Nordic leaders, Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Initiated by Finland and Norway, the call came after discussions held in Oslo on October 20. The leaders aimed to convey critical messages about the need for negotiations and the importance of ending the conflict.
Stubb described the conversation as “frank and substantive,” underlining that the outcome of the war would impact European security. He stated, “Ending the war requires direct discussions.” Støre, reflecting on the war’s human and economic toll, emphasized the necessity of de-escalation and reiterated their support for Ukraine.
After the call, Stubb and Støre briefed Zelensky on their discussions. According to the Ukrainian president’s office, they informed Putin that reducing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is essential for de-escalation. Zelensky expressed gratitude to the Nordic leaders for involving Kyiv in the initiative and for their ongoing support for bringing Moscow back to negotiations.
The Kremlin acknowledged the talk and mentioned that the participants welcomed the plans to resume trilateral negotiations in Abu Dhabi. Russia has reiterated that any sustainable solution must address what it considers its security interests.
As the negotiations approach, Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine is intensifying diplomatic efforts with European partners to secure additional military assistance. He noted, “These days, we are doing our best to secure new support packages,” while assuring that communication with Washington remains active. The renewed diplomatic momentum follows recent talks in Oslo, where Zelensky and European leaders discussed the path forward, contributing to an environment more conducive to negotiations.
