EU keeps unofficial channel to Moscow open for possible Ukraine ceasefire talks
Photo: European Council President António Costa (Getty Images)
European Council President António Costa stated in an interview to Rapporteur that an unofficial diplomatic channel between the European Council and the Kremlin remains open for discussions on a ceasefire in Ukraine.
“The channel is open, and Russia knows that if and when they want effectively to talk about how to obtain a ceasefire, how to protect the civilian people, how to protect energy facilities, they can talk,” Costa said.
However, he expressed doubts about Moscow's willingness to engage in dialogue.
“Have you seen any signs from Russia that they want to engage seriously on this?” the European Council president asked the journalist.
Asked about the possibility of appointing a European representative to take part in peace negotiations, Costa said the format would depend on the nature of the discussions.
Costa's contacts with the Kremlin
In June, António Costa's chief adviser held two phone conversations with a senior Russian official who is part of the inner circle of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.
Costa was seeking to bring the Kremlin leader into negotiations on ending Russia's war against Ukraine.
It later emerged that Costa had approached the Kremlin to request the establishment of a communication channel. This was the EU's first such move since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Several European leaders criticized Costa for failing to inform some of his partners about his contacts with the Kremlin.
