German government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius confirmed the initiative in a press release, saying Wednesday's virtual meeting will focus on "further options to exert pressure on Russia" and "preparations for possible peace negotiations and related questions regarding territorial claims and security guarantees."

EU foreign ministers are meeting via video link ahead of Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump's meeting in Alaska on Friday. Brussels has expressed concern over a lack of Ukrainian presence. DW has more.

Ukraine and its European backers are seeking talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in an effort to protect their security interests ahead of his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin later this week.