António Costa: Moscow shows no readiness for serious negotiations with the EU

Dialogue is possible, but there is no initiative

European Council President António Costa explained the current state of relations between the European Union and Russia in an interview with the publication Rapporteur. According to him, Moscow is aware of the possibility of holding a dialogue with the EU, but currently does not demonstrate readiness for substantial negotiations aimed at a ceasefire and ensuring the safety of the civilian population.

The role of a special envoy and the position regarding the US

António Costa noted that the European Union does not rule out appointing a special envoy to participate in peace negotiations. At the same time, the specific format of EU representation will depend on the nature of future discussions. The European Council leader emphasised that the union has no intention of competing with the peace initiatives of US President Donald Trump.

Status of the diplomatic channel

Costa recalled that at the beginning of the current year, the Secretary-General of the President of the European Council, Pedro Lourtie, established a diplomatic channel of communication with the Kremlin. Responding to a question about whether this channel had been used after its creation, the European Council President replied that «канал відкритий» ("the channel is open").

«Росія знає, що якщо і коли вона захоче справді обговорити шляхи досягнення припинення вогню, захисту цивільного населення та енергетичних об’єктів, вона може це зробити», — додав Антоніу Кошта ("Russia knows that if and when it wants to truly discuss ways to achieve a ceasefire, protect the civilian population and energy facilities, it can do so," António Costa added).

Doubts about Moscow's intentions

Despite the technical possibility of contact, the head of the European Council expressed doubts about the real intentions of the Russian side. Costa posed a rhetorical question that reflects his position on the Kremlin's activity:

«Але послухайте, чи бачили ви якісь ознаки з боку Росії, що вони хочуть серйозно займатися цим?» ("But listen, have you seen any signs from Russia that they want to take this seriously?")