As the inauguration of Donald Trump approaches, European leaders find themselves in a state of apprehension, fearing exclusion from potential peace negotiations concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

An extensive analysis by Euractiv delves into the shared anxiety among EU diplomats that Trump may engage in direct discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, potentially disregarding European interests.

Ukraine is concurrently working to bolster its negotiating position against Russian forces, while President Volodymyr Zelensky remains averse to swift peace talks.

The prevailing sentiment among EU leaders, with the exceptions of nations like Hungary and Slovakia, is that pressuring Zelensky would be futile absent a demonstrable willingness from Russia to engage in dialogue.

The European Union is eager to secure its presence at the negotiating table for Ukraine, though the incoming American administration's anticipated stance remains uncertain.

Certain leaders, such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, are hopeful that Trump will not forsake Ukraine.

In contrast, figures like Donald Tusk, Poland's Prime Minister and current holder of the EU presidency, are seeking to forge a coalition, spearheaded by Europe, to maintain ongoing support for Ukraine.

Domestic political challenges in France and Germany serve to weaken these countries' roles in the situation, whereas Poland is expected to actively champion efforts toward achieving peace in Ukraine.

The format of the impending negotiations is paramount, alongside the pivotal question of which nations will participate.

EU leaders aim to avoid a broader participation forum that could include non-European actors such as China, India, or Brazil, fearing that such involvement might yield unfavorable outcomes for Ukraine.

Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign affairs chief, emphasized that should the United States refrain from leading the process, the EU is prepared to take the initiative.

Nevertheless, EU diplomacy acknowledges an ongoing lack of a clear strategy regarding their objectives for these negotiations.

According to insights from Dumoulin, mere participation is insufficient; the EU must set clear goals to decisively influence the negotiations' outcomes.