European Council President Antonio Costa on Friday defended his office’s recent diplomatic outreach to the Kremlin, saying the European Union needs direct communication channels with Russia even though the time for peace negotiations over Ukraine has not yet arrived.

European Council President Antonio Costa has contacted the Kremlin to discuss ending the Ukraine war, signaling a shift in Europe's diplomatic approach.

European Council President António Costa's adviser held two preparatory calls with a Kremlin-linked official to explore Ukraine peace talks. Here's what it

Back channel line opened by António Costa