The European Union does not intend to act as a mediator in peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, and remains on the side of Kiev. The statement belongs to the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, after some leaders in the community suggested that the EU should get involved in the negotiations.
Although he confirmed discussions with Moscow, Costa emphasized that only Vladimir Zelenski can negotiate on behalf of Ukraine with Vladimir Putin, reports Agerpres. At the same time, the official from Brussels said that direct discussions with Russia are important, but the EU should not enter into “competition” with other actors.
“What I do through my office is to establish a diplomatic channel, as we cannot solely depend on others to interpret Russian messages. We must be capable of conveying our own messages to Russia,” explained the President of the European Council.
Previously, the Western press reported on possible contacts between Costa’s team and the Kremlin. Moscow welcomed the dialogue, but suggested that Brussels needs to change its approach and not communicate from a position of strength.