European Council president explains why EU has chosen team rather than single representative for Ukraine peace talks

European Council President António Costa has explained why EU leaders have decided to send a team rather than a single representative to the peace negotiations on Ukraine.

Source: Costa at a press conference in Dublin following an informal summit of EU leaders, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Costa emphasised that other parties involved in the negotiations are also represented by teams.

"Look, just an example. If you look for the special envoy from President Trump, there is not one. They are two. If you look at the Ukrainian delegation, I think it's three or four people. Look, it's normal," the European Council president said.

He added that the team will represent not only the European Union but also the Coalition of the Willing, which plays a crucial role with regard to the provision of security guarantees for Ukraine following a peace agreement.

"Of course, we need to integrate all of us. And this is essential to have a team and to speak with only one voice. This is what we agreed to do and this is what we are working on," Costa said.

Background:

• Earlier on 13 November, Costa announced that EU leaders had agreed on the format of Europe's representation in future negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Representatives of EU institutions and the E5 countries (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Poland) will take part in the talks.
• Politico reported earlier that the E5 countries will be represented by their national security advisers.

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