EU leaders disagree on creation of Kremlin back-channel amid Ukraine war
Summary
European Union leaders could not agree on creating a secret communication channel with Russia to protect EU interests if peace talks succeed in ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. Some leaders want direct Ukraine-Russia talks without EU mediation, while others see value in opening dialogue, but Russia demands talks without pressure.Key Facts
- EU leaders met for two days but disagreed on setting up a back-channel to Moscow.
- European Council President António Costa proposed contacting Russia through a senior official but not to lead negotiations.
- Many EU countries doubt Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to negotiate seriously.
- Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said Europe cannot decide if or who will lead peace talks.
- Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin supports opening a contact channel but stresses Ukraine-Russia talks first.
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said talks must include Ukraine, Russia, Europe, and the U.S.
- Russia says it is ready for talks if Europe stops approaching from a position of force.
- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov rejected Western accusations and warned about the risk of nuclear conflict.
- Some EU leaders, like Estonia’s Foreign Minister, want to support Ukraine strongly instead of acting as neutral mediators.
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