The Kremlin has rejected the idea of European mediation in possible peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, arguing that the European Union cannot be considered neutral because of its political and military support for Kyiv. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Europe has positioned itself directly on Ukraine’s side in the conflict and therefore cannot claim the role of mediator.

The European Union is not yet planning to appoint a chief negotiator for possible peace talks on ending Russia's war against Ukraine.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide’s stance clashes with that of EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas, who characterized direct negotiations with Putin as a “trap.”