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The European Union is continuing discussions over a possible negotiator for future talks with Russia, but member states have not yet agreed on a single candidate, according to Politico.
Among the names reportedly under consideration are former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi.
According to the report, Merkel is being considered because of her past contacts with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, some European politicians reportedly view her previous mediation efforts as unsuccessful.
Stubb has also shown interest in a potential mediator role, but Finland’s NATO membership could complicate his acceptance in Moscow.
Draghi is seen by some in Europe as a more neutral figure, although he has not publicly expressed willingness to participate in negotiations.
Politico also described EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas as an obvious candidate. While Kallas has long opposed direct negotiations with Russia, she recently opened the door to the idea of appointing a special envoy and said EU foreign ministers would discuss the matter later this month.
Last week, she appeared to hint at her own candidacy, telling reporters: “I think I would be able to recognize the traps Russia sets.”
However, three EU diplomats told the publication that Kallas’s strong anti-Russian stance would likely trigger an immediate rejection from the Kremlin.
“Unfortunately, she has excluded herself from the list of candidates,” one EU diplomat reportedly said.
Earlier, Ukraine and Germany opposed suggestions that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder could act as a mediator, despite support for the idea from Putin. Kallas also criticized Schröder, calling him “a well-known lobbyist for Russian companies.”
German media have additionally discussed a possible “duet” involving Schröder and current German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, citing Steinmeier’s diplomatic experience and past involvement in negotiations over Donbas.
