EU Leaders Debate Mandate for Russia Talks Amid Diplomatic Outreach

Von der Leyen emphasized that while the EU should consider a negotiating mandate, Kyiv must remain in control of the diplomatic process. She also highlighted the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia and expressed optimism about the war's trajectory favoring Ukraine.

Costa's move to open a diplomatic line with a senior aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Yuri Ushakov, had drawn controversy among member states. Several nations, particularly those in Eastern Europe, argued that now is not the time for engagement and that sanctions should be intensified. Costa defended his action, stating he had merely opened a line of communication, not initiated formal negotiations.

Discussions also touched upon the scope of Costa's mandate, with some leaders suggesting it covers sanctions and frozen assets, but security guarantees fall under individual member states. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine's position that territorial integrity is non-negotiable and that any peace deal must include robust security guarantees. He also noted that an EU negotiator would only be relevant if Russia demonstrated a genuine willingness to engage.