Zelensky backs Europe's role in Russia-Ukraine peace talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky believes European leaders should take part in the negotiations. Kyiv hopes Ukraine will eventually join the European Union, and Europe is already involved in the peace process.

Trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi

Talks between Ukraine, Russia and the United States were held in Abu Dhabi on 10 and 11 November 2026. They were the first attempt since February to negotiate an end to the war. According to reports, the delegations discussed security guarantees and Ukraine's post-war future. The sides also reportedly agreed a prisoner exchange, but no breakthrough was reached.

Earlier, on 6 November, US envoy Jared Kushner said European countries could take part in the negotiations, depending on how the talks progressed. The foreign ministers of Poland and Ukraine and the EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, said that Europe could not be excluded from discussions about its own security.

Kyiv's position

In Copenhagen on 11 November, Zelensky said the United States was important in the negotiations, but that the war was taking place in Europe, so Europe needed a voice. He called for agreement in November on who would represent Europe in the peace talks. He also warned against discussing a new security order in Europe before the war ends, describing the risk as a new Yalta.

Next steps

According to reports, Kushner and Steve Witkoff are first due to meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow, then travel to Dublin to talk with Zelensky. Zelensky was also reported to be meeting European leaders in Dublin on Thursday 12 November 2026, where he stressed that Europe must stay alert on security guarantees.

What this means for you

The sources do not point to any direct effects on residency, work, taxes or travel for people living in the UK. Poland is taking part in European consultations, however. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski took part in a meeting with Ukraine's foreign minister, Andrii Sybiha, and Kaja Kallas.