Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European Council President António Costa discussed prospects for peace negotiations and Ukraine’s European integration during a phone call on May 17, according to Ukraine’s presidential office.

Zelenskyy briefed Costa on his recent discussions with European leaders and U.S. representatives. He said Europe should have a strong voice and a direct presence in negotiations concerning Ukraine and the broader European security landscape.

The two leaders also discussed the possible opening of negotiating clusters as part of Ukraine’s EU accession process. Ukraine is prepared to begin the process, while the sides reviewed the expected timeline and communication needed to move forward.