Pragmatic or pointless? Europe’s rift over whether to pick up the phone to Putin
Summary
Finland’s president and Norway’s prime minister spoke by phone with Vladimir Putin, prompting criticism from Denmark and Sweden over the lack of coordination. The dispute reflects broader European divisions over whether and how to engage Moscow as governments seek a role in possible negotiations over the war in Ukraine.Key Facts
- Alexander Stubb and Jonas Gahr Støre held a 90-minute call with Putin on Tuesday.
- The Finnish and Norwegian leaders said they had informed allies in advance and that the call was conducted on Ukraine’s behalf.
- Denmark’s prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, said she was skeptical of the initiative and complained that Copenhagen had not coordinated it.
- Sweden’s prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, said he had not been informed before the call.
- European leaders have discussed appointing a representative to negotiate directly with Moscow, but have made little progress.
- The article says a new round of peace talks is expected in Abu Dhabi next month, raising European concerns about being sidelined.
- Støre cited shared fish stocks in the Barents Sea and border security as reasons for Norway to engage with Russia; Stubb said the call could help prevent misunderstandings.
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