Italian Prime Minister stated the necessity to talk with Russia
At the traditional New Year's press conference, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that a special European envoy for the Ukrainian issue should be appointed, who will conduct negotiations with both Ukraine and Russia.
Giorgia Meloni. Photo: Simona Granati / Corbis via Getty Images
«I believe the moment has come when Europe, too, must speak with Russia, because if Europe decides to participate in this phase of negotiations, speaking only with one of the two sides, its positive contribution will be limited,» — said the Italian Prime Minister.
At the same time, she warned about the need for coordinated participation: disjointed actions could only benefit Russian President Vladimir Putin.
«If we make the mistake of resuming negotiations with Russia without following a specific order, we will be doing Putin a favor. The last thing I want to do in life is do Putin a favor,» — noted the Italian Prime Minister.
Meloni also noted that it is still too early to talk about Russia's return to the G7 and its transformation into the G8.
As of today, the United States plays a key role in negotiations on Ukraine, conducting separate consultations with Moscow and Kyiv. European leaders maintain contacts with the Ukrainian leadership, but do not conduct official peace negotiations with Russia.
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron also noted the necessity of including Europe in negotiations with Russia, so as not to be left out of key decisions, while continuing military support for Ukraine and economic pressure on Moscow.
The Russian side has repeatedly stated its alleged readiness for negotiations, noting that Europe has refused dialogue, supporting the concept of Russia's «strategic defeat», but may return to discussions if it considers «the realities on the ground».
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