The European Union is exploring the possibility of establishing direct communication with the Kremlin to remain engaged in the peace process currently led by the United States.
Antonio Costa, the Prime Minister of Portugal, indicated that the EU has the capacity for independent discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. European capitals are reportedly frustrated with the ongoing negotiations regarding the cessation of hostilities in Ukraine, which are being facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Costa emphasized that the EU has received backing from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for preparing a “positive contribution” to the negotiation efforts. He is currently consulting with leaders from all 27 EU member states to determine a unified approach to engage with Russia. The primary objective is to prevent a situation where Europe is compelled to accept a peace agreement without its involvement or consent.
Despite Brussels’ readiness, EU officials acknowledge the lack of signals from Moscow indicating a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with the bloc. Costa pointed out that Russia is currently not showing intentions to participate in serious negotiations.
Within the EU, there is also a lack of consensus. While some leaders support the idea of establishing a communication channel with the Kremlin, the bloc has yet to agree on who would represent Europe and what specific proposals should be made to Putin.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is attempting to revitalize diplomatic efforts through the United States. Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, has arrived in Washington for meetings with special envoys from Donald Trump.
President Zelensky stated, “We are working to facilitate a dignified peace and ensure security.” However, he also highlighted that the Russian side has not adopted a constructive approach, and the conditions set by Putin, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the Donbas region, remain unacceptable to Kyiv.
Previously, media reports indicated that those close to Putin are seeking a “victory image” to present any peace agreement as a success amid the economic crisis and public fatigue from the war.
Additionally, an aide to Putin, Yuri Ushakov, has issued an ultimatum for peace negotiations with Ukraine and the U.S. Moscow has declared the “inappropriateness” of trilateral meetings until Kyiv withdraws its forces from territories under Ukrainian control in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
In response, the Office of the President of Ukraine stated that the Kremlin does not intend to cease hostilities even if it gains control over the Donbas, asserting that such ultimatums only reveal Russia’s true aggressive intentions.
The EU is considering direct negotiations with Russia to engage in the Ukraine peace process, amid frustrations over U.S.-led talks. While Ukraine seeks to revitalize diplomatic efforts, Moscow shows little interest in constructive dialogue.