EU Confidential Peace plan panic: Does the EU still have a say in Ukraine’s future?
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Nov 28, 2025 Veronika Melkozerova, a Kyiv-based journalist reporting from the frontline, shares gripping accounts of life in a city under bombardment. She discusses Ukrainians' frustration with the leaked US–Russia peace talks and highlights Kyiv's non-negotiables in any negotiations. Joining her are Bjarke Smith-Meyer, a POLITICO finance reporter, who breaks down the complexities of using frozen Russian assets for reparations loans, and Wouter Verschelden, who addresses Belgium's internal challenges regarding this funding amid growing EU pressures.
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Europe Was Sidelined In Early Peace Talks
- The US proposed a Russia-linked peace plan that largely excluded Europe and Ukraine from initial drafting.
- That sidelining forced Europe to scramble to reclaim influence over a deal that shapes its security and finances.
Reporting From Kyiv During Power Cuts
- Veronika Melkozerova describes living and reporting in Kyiv amid scheduled power cuts and nightly shelling.
- She sleeps in corridors or shelters and plans her workday around blackout timetables.
Leaked Call Raised Deep Frustration In Kyiv
- Ukrainians feel shocked and betrayed by reports of US envoy Steve Witkoff coaching a Russian official.
- Politicians stay cautious while activists and journalists express deep frustration at perceived US protection of pro-Russian actors.