Why the European Union is (once again) a major absentee in negotiations over the war in Ukraine

Russia perceives the EU as biased towards Ukraine, complicating its role as a neutral mediator in peace talks. Recent discussions led by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff indicate both Ukraine and Russia are open to negotiations, yet European leaders remain largely absent. Only Norway and Finland were represented in talks with Zelensky. Experts suggest the EU's strong support for Ukraine undermines its neutrality, while the U.S. under Trump appears to disregard the EU's role. The upcoming trilateral talks in November will involve the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine, but Europe has not been invited. Discussions about appointing a single EU negotiator are premature, as the EU's stance is firmly pro-Ukrainian, making neutrality challenging.