Stubb says Europe-Russia dialogue should restart for two key reasons
Photo: President of Finland Alexander Stubb (Getty Images)
There are two reasons why dialogue between Europe and Russia should resume. One of them is that Ukraine currently holds a stronger position than Russia, according to Finnish President Alexander Stubb in an interview with LRT.
"There are two reasons why, in my view, the time is approaching to begin such a dialogue in Europe. First, Ukraine’s position is strong, while Russia’s position is weak. You could say that Ukraine is largely winning this war, and Russia should therefore be interested in starting dialogue," Stubb said.
The second reason for restoring dialogue, he said, is the "European interest."
"If you are not at the table, you will be eaten at the table. So it is better to maintain some kind of dialogue. Who will conduct it and under what conditions — it is too early to say," the Finnish president noted.
When asked whether Europe is sufficiently united for dialogue with Russia, he answered affirmatively.
"To be honest, I have not seen the EU more united than it is now. We were united during COVID-19, we were united after the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine, and we supported Ukraine together, with some exceptions such as Viktor Orban in Hungary. Now that issue has disappeared, so we can help Ukraine," Stubb said.
According to him, it is impossible for "one person to speak on behalf of everyone," but it is important that "one, two, three, or several people can discuss practical details of the path to peace with Russia."
"I believe that first of all, we need to achieve a ceasefire. This is not being discussed at the moment. There were short ceasefires lasting a few days, but perhaps Europeans could help the Americans with this issue. Right now, the US is paying more attention to Iran," the Finnish president said.
Europe-Russia talks
Recall that European leaders are considering the possibility of resuming talks with Russia.
The Russian dictator said he considers former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder the best EU candidate to take part in possible negotiations to end the war.
The idea was rejected in Germany. A German official stressed that Schröder is not being considered as a mediator between the EU and the aggressor state.
On Monday, May 11, media reported that Berlin is discussing the candidacy of President Frank-Walter Steinmeier as a possible negotiator between Europe and Russia.
In addition, Kaja Kallas suggested she could act as an EU negotiator in future dialogue with Russia.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico proposed that Europe be represented in talks with Putin by a "connoisseur of the Russian soul."
