**EU and US Discuss Ukraine Peace Talks**
On February 18, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with US Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg in Brussels to discuss ending Russia‘s invasion of Ukraine.
This meeting comes as the US and Russia began talks in Saudi Arabia on the same day. Ukraine is not participating in these talks, but President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to visit Saudi Arabia soon.
**EU Warns Against Rushing into Ceasefire Agreement**
Von der Leyen wrote on X that Europe has brought more financial and military support to Ukraine than anyone else. She emphasized the need for a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine. An unnamed European official also warned against rushing into a ceasefire agreement without a peace deal, citing past experiences with failed agreements.
The EU supports the US approach of achieving peace through strength but believes that a ceasefire agreement alone is not enough. The EU is ready to provide security guarantees to Ukrainians, but only if supported by the US.
**Concerns Over Ukraine’s Role in Negotiations**
European officials have expressed concerns that Ukraine may be left out of these negotiations and want Kyiv to be involved directly. US President Donald Trump has reaffirmed that Zelensky will have a say in the process.
US Envoy Kellogg is expected to visit Ukraine on February 19 to discuss diplomatic and military support, as well as potential pathways to peace.
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