‘We should send you to Moscow’: Belgian PM has a diplomatic mission for Costa

Live updates

1. 1d ago

   EU Leaders Split Over Proposed Back Channel to Moscow

   European Union leaders failed to agree on establishing a back-channel with Moscow to protect bloc interests during potential Ukraine peace negotiations. Council President Antonio Costa proposed a senior official for contact but stated he is not attempting to mediate or create a parallel track to US-led efforts. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever suggested Costa as the representative for future engagements with Vladimir Putin.

   What's confirmed:

   • EU leaders have not reached an agreement on setting up a back-channel with Moscow.
   • Council President Antonio Costa directed his office to contact the Kremlin and proposed a senior official for the role.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever suggested Antonio Costa as the person to represent the EU in future engagements with Vladimir Putin.
   confidence 90%
2. 3d ago

   Belgian PM Proposes Antonio Costa for Moscow Mission

   EU leader Antonio Costa is attempting to establish a back channel with Vladimir Putin. The move has caused division among EU leaders and drew criticism from Macron and Merz. The Belgian Prime Minister suggested Costa as the right person for this diplomatic mission.

   What's confirmed:

   • EU leader Antonio Costa is seeking to open a diplomatic back channel with Vladimir Putin.
   • The decision to open communication channels with Russia has caused disagreement among EU leaders.
   • Russia expressed readiness for talks but rejected ultimatums.
   • Von der Leyen backed the EU mandate for talks with Russia.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Bart De Wever believes Costa is the right man for dealing with Vladimir Putin.
   • Moscow described the EU negotiations strategy as the biggest mistake.
   • Macron and Merz attacked the EU stance on Putin talks.
   • The Austrian chancellor stated Europe should speak to Putin.
   confidence 90%