European governments are discussing the appointment of a representative to hold possible peace negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the conflict in Ukraine, according to British newspaper The Telegraph.

The publication reports that five European leaders are being considered for the role: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Czech President Petr Pavel, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The discussions come amid growing concerns in European capitals about Washington’s approach to resolving the Ukraine conflict. According to the newspaper, European officials increasingly fear that US President Donald Trump is no longer adequately defending Europe’s interests in the diplomatic process.

These concerns have intensified efforts to identify a European representative who could participate directly in negotiations with Moscow rather than relying entirely on American diplomatic initiatives.

European Council President António Costa has reportedly ruled himself out as a potential intermediary. The Telegraph says he declined to take on the role during a recent meeting in Brussels.

However, the selection of a negotiator remains complicated by the need for agreement among European governments.

Before appointing a representative, European leaders must first reach a consensus on whether direct negotiations with Russia are necessary. They would then need to establish a common position on the terms and objectives of any potential peace talks.

The newspaper indicates that these disagreements must be resolved before Europe can move forward with a coordinated diplomatic initiative involving Moscow.