European Union foreign ministers are expected to discuss the possibility of direct engagement with Russia during an informal meeting later this month, according to the bloc’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. The discussions come as U.S.-led efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine continue to face difficulties.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kallas said European leaders must first coordinate among themselves before entering any dialogue with Moscow. She stressed that the European Union needs a unified position regarding possible negotiations and future security demands.
“Before we discuss with Russia, we should discuss among ourselves what we want to talk to them about,” Kallas stated. She also emphasized that Europe seeks guarantees for long-term regional peace and stability.
EU ministers to meet in Cyprus
The issue of direct talks is expected to be discussed during an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Lefkosia on May 27 and 28. According to Kallas, ministers will also examine ways to counter what she described as Russia’s continuing pressure and attacks on neighboring countries.
Kallas further stated that any future negotiations would require concessions from Moscow. “We need concessions, also from the Russian side,” she said during the media briefing.
Meanwhile, António Costa recently said he sees potential for European negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky supports the idea.
Russia comments on possible EU representative
A senior Ukrainian official reportedly welcomed stronger European coordination and suggested appointing a single EU representative to increase diplomatic pressure on Russia.
In response, Putin suggested former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder or another figure who had not criticized Russia could represent Europe in potential talks. However, Kallas rejected the proposal, arguing that Schröder’s business ties with Russian state firms create a conflict of interest.
Germany also dismissed Putin’s suggestion, describing it as lacking credibility.
