Macron, Merz attack EU’s stance on Putin talks
French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have criticized European Council President Antonio Costa for establishing dialogue with Vladimir Putin. The leaders believe it is not the right time for engagement with Russia. This dispute occurred during the first night of an EU Council Summit.
What changed
The conflict over Russia talks has reportedly threatened the success of upcoming discussions regarding the next seven-year budget.
Live updates
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Macron and Merz Oppose Costa's Russia Dialogue
confidence 90%French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have criticized European Council President Antonio Costa for establishing dialogue with Vladimir Putin. The leaders believe it is not the right time for engagement with Russia. This dispute occurred during the first night of an EU Council Summit.
What's confirmed:
- Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz criticized Antonio Costa's decision to establish dialogue with Vladimir Putin.
- Macron and Merz believe now is not the time to engage in dialogue with Russia.
- EU leaders have not agreed on a back-channel with Moscow to protect the bloc's interests.
Still unconfirmed:
- Macron is planning a telephone call with Vladimir Putin.
- The fight over representation in diplomatic talks puts Friday's budget discussions at risk of failure.
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Macron and Merz Criticize EU Council Efforts to Contact Putin
confidence 95%French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have criticized European Council President Antonio Costa for attempting to open communication channels with the Kremlin. A late-night Brussels summit revealed deep divisions among EU leaders regarding the timing and leadership of negotiations with Russia. The dispute centers on who should represent Europe in talks to end the war in Ukraine.
What's confirmed:
- French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized European Council President Antonio Costa for attempting to establish contact with Moscow.
- European Council President Antonio Costa sought to open a diplomatic communication channel with the Kremlin.
- A summit in Brussels exposed splits between EU leaders over who should lead negotiations with Russia and when those talks should occur.
Still unconfirmed:
- The European Union has quietly sought to reopen communication with Russia.
- The Austrian chancellor believes Europe should speak to Putin.