European officials are signaling a unified front in the ongoing search for a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine, emphasizing collaboration with both Kyiv and Washington.As diplomatic efforts accelerate-including an emergency EU leaders’ meeting convened in Angola-the bloc is stressing its central role in shaping any viable peace plan. While details remain closely held, the European Union is asserting it is contributing constructively to discussions, and is not currently formulating counter-proposals to existing frameworks.
EU Emphasizes Constructive Role in Ukraine Peace Talks, No Counter-Proposals to US
European officials are continuing to emphasize a coordinated approach to securing a lasting peace in Ukraine, following recent discussions in Geneva and with Ukrainian and U.S. counterparts. The development comes as international efforts to find a resolution to the conflict intensify.
“I would like to reiterate that a strong and coordinated European commitment has produced constructive progress in the negotiations for a peace plan for Ukraine in recent hours and yesterday included a unique European presence during discussions with Ukraine, with us and in Geneva, with the participation, in particular, of representatives of the EU and the Commission,” European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho said during a daily press briefing on November 25th. “The President has made it clear that the centrality of the European Union in finally ensuring peace for Ukraine, and a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, must be fully reflected in any credible plan, and that is why we also welcome the joint statement by Ukraine and the United States presented yesterday after the discussions, and we note that there is still much work to be done. We are ready to play our part in this regard,” she added.
Pinho also referenced an extraordinary meeting of EU leaders taking place on November 25th, which began around 10:30 a.m. in Angola in a hybrid format. The meeting, convened by Council President Antonio Costa, is evaluating next steps, including a meeting tomorrow of the Coalition of the Willing. “Therefore, the European commitment will continue on all fronts to ensure a lasting and defined peace for Ukraine,” she stated.
“We are not talking about counter-proposals,” Pinho clarified. “What ultimately matters is the content of this peace plan and whether it can actually lead to a just peace in Ukraine, and that is where we are playing a constructive role in discussions with Ukraine and with the U.S. We will not go into the details of these discussions, but I said that some of the principles outlined yesterday by President von der Leyen are already framed,” she explained.
On November 22nd, French President Emmanuel Macron proposed a video conference meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, which is scheduled for Tuesday, November 25th at 4:00 p.m. According to sources at the Élysée Palace, the meeting will provide an opportunity to review the discussions held in Geneva on November 23rd. “Building on the momentum and work done in recent months within the Coalition, this meeting will reaffirm the commitment of its members to building a just and lasting peace, supported by solid security guarantees for Ukraine,” officials said.
Macron is expected to reaffirm France’s determination to continue its commitment to peace and security in Ukraine and in Europe, according to a statement released by his office. The announcement underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and find a path toward a sustainable resolution.