European Union admits it has “specific interests that will need to be defended” in the Ukraine war
A member of European Council President António Costa’s cabinet has established diplomatic contacts with the Kremlin in recent weeks to open channels of communication with Moscow, at a time when European debate is increasing about the European Union’s possible more direct involvement in efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
According to a European source, the contacts were brief, took place at a diplomatic level and did not include any discussion on substantive issues related to the conflict.
The same source emphasizes that, in any future scenario, the European Union will have “specific interests that will need to be defended”, which is why it considers it important to maintain established diplomatic channels with Russia.
Brussels insists, however, that the European bloc does not assume a mediating role between Kiev and Moscow. The official position remains focused on supporting Ukraine to achieve a peace considered “just and lasting”.
The opening of this channel comes at a time when discussion is growing within Europe about possible European participation in future negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
In recent weeks, the President of the European Council, António Costa, has been in close coordination with European leaders on possible ways of contacting Moscow and on the topics that can be addressed when there is a suitable political context to move forward.
Pressure for greater European involvement intensified after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on European leaders to take a more active role in creating the conditions necessary to facilitate future peace talks.
Kiev’s argument also arises in a context in which the United States has shown less direct leadership in the diplomatic process, fueling the debate within the European Union about who could represent the bloc if formal contacts with Moscow progress.
Despite this, divisions persist among the 27 member states. Countries such as Poland and the Baltic States have expressed reservations about opening direct negotiations, arguing that this could reduce pressure on Russia. Other capitals, including Paris, have shown greater openness to the possibility of dialogue.
The topic should return to the table at the meeting of European leaders in Brussels, although, for now, no decision is expected on a possible formal representation of the European Union in future talks.
