Dumping Trump diplomacy, EU sets its own Russia peace demands

The European Union has begun drafting a detailed list of conditions that Russia must meet to secure any lasting peace in Ukraine, driven by growing doubts over the effectiveness and balance of US-led negotiations under President Donald Trump , continued battlefield escalation, and concerns that Moscow is not negotiating in good faith. EU officials say there is mounting unease in Brussels that European and Ukrainian interests are not being adequately represented, prompting the bloc to formulate its own framework for a sustainable settlement.

Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief , argued that Europe must be involved in any final peace deal , warning that without continental participation, no agreement would be sustainable. Opponents contend that neutral mediation is crucial , suggesting that involvement from non-aligned countries could ensure a more balanced negotiating platform. They caution that deeper European participation may tilt talks further against Russia, reducing trust and prospects for compromise.

She cautioned that pressuring the weaker side risks producing only symbolic peace, though sceptics argue that Europe itself is under mounting economic and political pressure , complicating its ability to sustain prolonged confrontation.

The EU chief highlighted that sanctions are damaging Russia’s economy, increasing inflation and weakening recruitment. Some analysts dispute this, noting that Russia has largely adapted , restructuring trade, boosting domestic production, and strengthening ties with Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.

Kallas further emphasised the EU’s leverage, including €210 billion in frozen Russian central bank assets , which could influence Moscow’s calculations. Brussels is preparing additional measures, such as a ban on repair and maintenance services for ships carrying Russian oil , aimed at tightening sanctions enforcement. She hopes to secure G7 backing for these steps during discussions at the Munich Security Conference this weekend.