Costa: Channel to Kremlin Open, but Russia Not Ready to Talk

European Council President António Costa said the channel of communication with the Kremlin remains open, but Russia so far shows no sign that it is ready for serious dialogue, according to an interview he gave to Rapporteur, as reported by European Pravda.

The comments come amid new speculation that Europe could appoint a special representative to take part in peace talks. Costa said European representation "will depend on the nature of the negotiations." "For certain negotiations we can use a special representative, as well as diplomatic or political channels," the head of the European Council said. He stressed that the EU does not seek to interfere with US President Donald Trump's peace efforts or compete with them.

The closed channel to Moscow

Costa's chief of staff, Pedro Lourtie, set up a closed diplomatic channel to the Kremlin earlier this year. Asked whether it has been used since, Costa said: "The channel is open."

"Russia knows that if and when it wants to genuinely discuss ways to achieve a ceasefire and protect civilians and energy facilities, it can do so. But tell me, have you seen any sign that Russia wants to hold such talks seriously?" Costa said.

Search for a European negotiator

The Telegraph reported on October 22 that Europe is vetting potential negotiators with Russia for talks on ending the war in Ukraine, with five candidates under consideration. Politico reported that the question of finding a European representative has become especially pressing this week after US special envoy Steve Witkoff visited Russia.

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