European governments discuss appointing a negotiator for dialogue with Putin on Ukraine

2026-10-21

Against the backdrop of Washington’s talks with Moscow without European participation, European governments are discussing their own channel for negotiations on settling the war in Ukraine.
Czech President Petr Pavel proposed choosing one person or a group authorized to represent Europe; they would not necessarily have to be EU or NATO officials.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb has drawn particular attention: he is considered close to Donald Trump, and Finland has extensive experience engaging with Russia.
Diplomats have yet to agree on a candidate; Ursula von der Leyen, António Costa and Kaja Kallas are being discussed among possible representatives.
Citing The Daily Telegraph, Rossiyskaya Gazeta listed five possible candidates: Giorgia Meloni, Alexander Stubb, Petr Pavel, Jonas Gahr Støre and Mette Frederiksen.
Italy called for a common representative to be agreed on as soon as possible, warning that fragmented contacts would weaken Europe’s influence in the negotiations.