Germany sees a 'window' for talks with Russia, but one major issue stands in the way
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, and Keir Starmer (Getty Images)
Germany signals the possibility of starting talks between Europe and Russia on Ukraine, but Berlin emphasized one critically important issue, reports Sky News.
According to a German official, the possibility of dialogue between Europe and Russia on the situation in Ukraine is gradually opening up.
He stressed that it is extremely important to “establish a format” that will be “effective and credible” for the European Union.
The official added there are strong indications that the E3 group — Germany, France, and the United Kingdom — will continue to play an important role in this issue.
He noted that it may take several months before the situation moves forward.
Search for an EU negotiator
Politico reported that EU countries have not yet reached a common position on the possible appointment of a special envoy for talks with Russia. Some states support the initiative amid the gradual winding down of the United States’ mediating role, while others fear it could weaken pressure on the Kremlin.
Ukraine’s closest allies oppose the idea. They emphasize that the Russian president is not showing readiness to bring the war to a real end, and that the emergence of a separate negotiator could negatively affect the EU’s sanctions policy toward Russia.
Among potential candidates in European political circles were European Council President António Costa, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, former ECB President Mario Draghi, former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, and former European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.
Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel was also mentioned among possible contenders, but she indicated she does not see herself in the role.
