What are European officials' concerns about potential U.S.-led negotiations regarding Ukraine, and why do they believe European involvement is crucial?

European officials are deeply concerned that any deal pushed by the United States regarding Ukraine's situation could result in capitulation rather than a fair resolution. They fear being excluded from negotiations that directly impact their security and regional stability. European policymakers emphasize that successful implementation of any Ukraine agreement requires active European participation, as they would be responsible for executing key aspects of the deal. Without European buy-in and collaboration between the U.S., Ukraine, and European nations, any agreement made "behind their backs" would be ineffective and unsustainable.