Ukraine updates: EU to send united front to potential peace talks

European and Ukrainian leaders have long insisted on the EU's participation in peace talks, while Russia has rejected the idea and the US appeared indifferent under the Trump administration. However, the situation appears to have changed, with US envoy and presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner stating Thursday, We cannot conclude this deal without the Europeans being at the table, adding that Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to give it a try.

EU representation dispute

Despite consensus about wanting peace after nearly five years of Russia's war of aggression, Europe lacks unanimity as to who should represent the continent's interests. Russia and the US have called for one single representative, while several nations prefer a diplomatic team. The bloc's foreign affairs boss Kaja Kallas, a staunch critic of Russia, asserted Friday, I'm the one who is representing Europe in the foreign and security policy. She added, I know that the Russians don't want me, but, you know, do we have a say, who is representing Russia?

Starshield concerns

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported ongoing issues with Starshield, SpaceX's military-grade satellite internet system. He said connections only work when devices move slower than 161 kilometers per hour, making it impossible to use interceptors against jet-powered 'Shaheds' drones. This makes it impossible, in particular, to use interceptors against jet-powered 'Shaheds,' Zelenskyy said. Ukraine first flagged Starshield issues last month following a dispute between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump over a US deal allowing more Russian diesel into global markets.

German concerns

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday asked US President Donald Trump to avoid surprises on Ukraine when meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at next week's APEC summit in China. Merz expressed fears this could become a second Anchorage moment, referring to last summer's talks in Alaska that Europeans viewed as favoring Putin. I therefore want to state our message to the United States very clearly: Please, no surprises. Continue to play as part of 'Team Europe' and 'Team Ukraine,' Merz said. He also stated Europe does not need to discuss security arrangements with Russia, as it already exists.

Kremlin skepticism

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated Russia has not yet agreed to EU participation, saying the Kremlin needs clarity on the European Union's real intentions before deciding on an expanded format. Once we understand their real intentions and their willingness to contribute to the peace process, then we can make a decision on holding talks in an expanded format, Peskov said. He added that Russia has not received single concrete peace proposal from European countries. Kallas countered that Russia doesn't want anybody strong at the table because they want to push through their maximum demands.