BRUSSELS

European governments are pressing the European Union to appoint a special negotiator to represent their interests in talks on Ukraine, amid growing concerns that the United States could reach an agreement with Russia without adequately reflecting Europe’s security priorities, several diplomats and officials told Politico on Wednesday.

The push, led by France and Italy, reflects fears in several capitals that Washington's bilateral contacts with Moscow could sideline the EU on issues with direct implications for European security, including Ukraine’s future and the continent’s long-term defense architecture.

According to three diplomats and officials with direct knowledge of the discussions, supporters of the proposal have gained backing within the European Commission and among a number of member states.

They argue that Europe can only defend its red lines, such as opposing any settlement that undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty or future security guarantees, if the EU has its own representative at the negotiating table.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have in recent weeks coordinated calls for opening diplomatic channels with Moscow, despite doubts over Russia's readiness to negotiate.

A senior French official argued the growing number of bilateral discussions between the US and Russia had reinforced the need for Europe to play a role, adding that Rome strongly supports this view.

Discussions in Brussels have focused on how the EU could contribute to any negotiations and how European concerns could be safeguarded if talks move forward, according to the report.

"There are some issues which cannot be discussed with (only) the US when they have direct implications on our security as Europeans," one EU official said.

Kurt Volker, former US special representative for Ukraine negotiations, said Brussels would need to be more assertive to ensure it is not excluded from the process, noting that Washington's direct dialogue with Moscow is likely to continue, regardless of European reservations.

The idea of appointing a special envoy was first raised at an EU summit last March but was ultimately left out of the final conclusions. Differences persist over the scope of the role, including whether the negotiator would engage directly with Russia or represent the EU alongside Ukraine.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has positioned herself as a central figure in shaping the bloc's stance on Ukraine, emphasizing her role in coordinating sanctions and maintaining unity among member states.

Possible names floated by diplomats include former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, though EU officials stressed that no formal decision has been taken.

Two EU officials underlined that no special negotiator role currently exists, while another noted that discussions remain at an early stage.