PACE identifies potential initiator for peace talks in Ukraine
Photo: Romanian MP Lulian Bulai (facebook com bulaiiulian2016)
The Council of Europe may initiate peace talks on Ukraine. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) expects that such a dialogue could begin in the coming months, Lulian Bulai, Head of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) and Romanian MP says in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
Lulian Bulai noted that the political situation in Europe is not very favorable right now, as the UK is no longer a member of the EU, Germany is in the middle of an election campaign, and the French government is weakened.
The Romanian MP expressed concerns that European leaders may not be able to strongly influence the negotiation process at this moment. The politician added that the unanimity principle of the European Council does not contribute to a more active role for the EU.
"That's why I think the Council of Europe could invite parties to the negotiations. Not the OSCE, not the UN. If the European Union is divided, why not the Council of Europe?" said Bulai.
The Romanian MP pointed out that the new Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, could join the discussion, as he has significant experience as President of Switzerland, which adheres to a policy of neutrality and hosts high-level negotiations.
"So, with this very fortunate combination of competencies, with the Council of Europe that has already provided Ukraine with the institution and the right narratives, with President Trump's commitment to a ceasefire and negotiations, and with Mr. Berse, the newly elected Secretary General who represents European values and interests in this process, we should expect dialogue that will include us in the coming months," Lulian Bulai stated.
Ukraine and Russia talks
Ukraine and Russia are not currently conducting negotiations to end the war. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly emphasized that it will return to the negotiating table only after strengthening its position.
It is expected that the change of leadership in the United States and the return of Donald Trump to the White House could accelerate the peace process. Trump himself has stated that he would like to end the war in Ukraine.
In February, US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, will visit Ukraine. The President's Office emphasized that such communication is important for Ukraine.
