Ukraine sees potential in reviving E3 talks with UK, France and Germany
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
Ukraine is seeking to revive the European E3 diplomatic format involving the UK, France, and Germany for future peace negotiations, according to The Telegraph.
According to diplomatic sources, the Ukrainian side no longer considers the United States to be an effective mediator in negotiations. Because of this, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly “sees potential” in restoring the E3 format.
The Ukrainian leader already raised the proposal during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron last week, saying he wanted to give the format “additional substance.”
A source within the E3 confirmed that talks are underway, although there are currently no concrete agreements regarding direct contacts with Russia.
According to sources, the Ukrainian government wants European negotiators to convey to the Kremlin that peace talks are in Russia’s own interests. One reason cited is that “Kyiv’s armed forces now have the ability to 'destroy' the holiday season for Russians.”
Officials believe that disrupting travel opportunities for Russian citizens and further undermining trust in Russian dictator Vladimir Putin inside Russia could become an effective way to pressure him into voluntarily entering negotiations.
What is the E3 format
The E3 format is an informal diplomatic cooperation mechanism between France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
It was created in 2003 for negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program. At the time, the European trio served as the primary intermediary among Tehran, the United States, and the UN Security Council.
Today, the format is used more broadly, including for coordinating positions on sanctions, security, and developments in the Middle East.
As previously reported, the head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, Kyrylo Budanov, said he believes the peace process between Ukraine and Russia will ultimately end the war.
At the same time, the Institute for the Study of War stated that there are still no signs the Kremlin intends to end its aggression, despite Putin’s public statements.
