France, Germany and Britain Seek Role in Ukraine Talks as Trump Exclusion Fears Grow
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 15
France, Germany and Britain Seek Role in Ukraine Talks as Trump Exclusion Fears Grow
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 15
Summary
Three European powers are drafting a format for eventual Russia-Ukraine negotiations to ensure Europe is represented and no settlement is struck over its head.
Five European officials said the push reflects fears that a Trump-led U.S. effort could sideline Europe even though Washington is still expected to lead any talks with Moscow.
France and Germany are driving the initiative, while Britain has been more cautious under its new prime minister because it is wary of straining ties with Trump.
The effort comes as Russia intensifies ballistic missile attacks on Ukrainian civilians and European officials see little sign Vladimir Putin is ready for serious negotiations.
Western officials expect the war to grow more destructive into winter, with Ukraine short of air defenses and some analysts warning Putin could mobilize more troops after mid-September elections.