STORY: :: Ukrainians say Europe's inclusion in peace talks is 'very important'

"Europe is our key ally and it must be with us in the negotiation process. Without Europe, as well as without Ukraine, no decisions should be made at all. This is very important."

"They should support Ukraine in all ways possible. They even shouldn't take part in any peace agreements between Russia and the United States without Ukraine."

"Europe cannot be ignored. It is very important to take into account Europe's opinion. And in general it supports Ukraine. Perhaps more strongly than Mr. Trump. It seems so to me. Therefore, contact and consideration of the positions of Europe are very important."

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday that Ukraine was ready to advance a U.S.-backed framework for ending the war with Russia and discuss disputed points with U.S. President Donald Trump in talks he said should include European allies.

U.S. and Ukrainian officials have been trying to narrow the gaps between them over Trump's plan to end Europe's deadliest and most devastating conflict since World War Two, with Ukraine wary of being strong-armed into accepting a deal largely on Russian terms, including territorial concessions.