Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee has insisted that the European Union must play a central role in shaping any peace agreement to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Speaking as US, Ukrainian, and European officials met in Geneva to discuss a potential accord, McEntee warned that Europe cannot be sidelined in negotiations that will determine the continent’s long‑term security.
Europe’s Role in Peace Negotiations
McEntee described the Geneva talks as an “absolutely critical moment”, stressing that no agreement can be credible if it allows borders to be changed by force. She emphasized that the EU has made clear its expectation to be fully involved in any settlement, noting that the consequences of the war extend far beyond Ukraine to the stability of the entire European continent Carlow Nationalist The Independent.
Security Concerns
The minister referenced recent reports of Russian and Belarusian involvement in cyber and physical attacks on European infrastructure, including Poland’s rail network and drone incursions in Lithuania. She argued that these incidents highlight the need for a durable peace framework that safeguards both Ukraine and Europe against future aggression Carlow Nationalist.
Pushback Against US Plan
The Geneva talks come amid growing unease among European leaders over the US‑backed 28‑point peace proposal, which critics say demands major concessions from Kyiv. European officials are pressing for revisions to ensure that Ukraine’s sovereignty and security guarantees are not compromised. While US Secretary of State Marco Rubio hailed the talks as “the best so far,” EU diplomats stressed that Europe’s voice must remain front and centre in shaping the outcome Aljazeera DW CNBC.
Outlook
McEntee reaffirmed Ireland’s solidarity with Ukraine, declaring that any peace deal must have the full support of both Kyiv and the EU. As negotiations continue, the debate underscores Europe’s determination to ensure that its interests and values are embedded in any settlement, reinforcing the principle that lasting peace cannot be achieved without European leadership RTÉ.
