European Council president Costa said on the 19th he is setting up a diplomatic channel through his office to convey EU messages directly to Russia, saying the EU should not rely on third parties to interpret its communications. He made the remark at a post-summit press conference. While the US has led diplomatic contact on a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire and talks, Europe seeks a larger role; some EU leaders remain reluctant about direct engagement with Russia.

2026-06-20

European Council president Costa said on the 19th he is setting up a diplomatic channel through his office to convey EU messages directly to Russia, saying the EU should not rely on third parties to interpret its communications. He made the remark at a post-summit press conference. While the US has led diplomatic contact on a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire and talks, Europe seeks a larger role; some EU leaders remain reluctant about direct engagement with Russia.