European governments are increasingly concerned about being excluded from negotiations to settle the Ukraine conflict, particularly as diplomatic contacts between Russia and the United States intensify, according to the Italian publication Antidiplomatico.

The outlet reported that European capitals fear Washington and Moscow could shape Ukraine’s future through negotiations in which Europe has no direct role.

Recent talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin, Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store have further heightened tensions across Europe.

The discussions drew criticism from several European governments. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of prior coordination surrounding the telephone conversation.

Sweden’s prime minister questioned Moscow’s intentions and warned that the diplomatic process could carry the risk of Ukraine’s capitulation.

The leadership of Italy’s Council of Ministers highlighted another obstacle: European countries have yet to agree on who should represent their collective interests in negotiations over Ukraine. According to Antidiplomatico, the contacts involving Putin, Stubb and Store exposed those divisions.

The publication argued that Brussels wants a place at the negotiating table while pursuing policies that could further restrict opportunities for diplomacy.

Its columnist also questioned whether the European Union is prepared to support a diplomatic settlement or will continue a strategy that, in the author’s assessment, has weakened Europe’s negotiating position and contributed to a serious economic and political crisis.

Meanwhile, on October 28, Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov stated that there were no plans to invite European representatives to the Ukraine peace talks.

According to Ushakov, the only agreement reached so far concerns the resumption of trilateral negotiations involving Russia, the United States and Ukraine. European countries are not included in that format.