Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are discussing possible steps with Ukraine to engage russia in end-of-war talks. European capitals believe the latest developments could bolster Ukraine's position and create new opportunities for diplomacy.
Bloomberg reports, citing sources familiar with the talks.
According to the agency, representatives of Europe's three largest economies are discussing a potential format for talks involving Kyiv and Moscow. These issues were also raised during contacts with the Ukrainian side.
Bloomberg's interlocutors note that against the backdrop of the protracted negotiation process under the auspices of the US, significant losses of the russian army and the lack of a breakthrough on the front, European countries see an opportunity to try to involve russian leader vladimir putin in the negotiation process.
The material also notes that the pressure on the Kremlin is being increased by successful strikes by Ukrainian drones on targets deep inside russian territory, as well as signs of dissatisfaction with the war among some russian elites.
European allies are seeking to use the current moment to avoid another difficult winter, during which russia may intensify attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and civilians.
At the same time, the agency's sources emphasize that the final decision on any negotiations remains with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
According to Bloomberg's interlocutors, European partners do not intend to put pressure on the Ukrainian leader.
In the coming days, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans to hold consultations with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron.
At the same time, some Western politicians and experts believe that now is not the best time for negotiations with Moscow. In their opinion, putin does not demonstrate readiness for real compromises and continues to make maximalist demands, in particular regarding the transfer of Ukrainian territories that russia does not control.
Supporters of a harder line insist that allies should focus on increasing military assistance to Ukraine and further strengthening sanctions pressure on russia.
According to Bloomberg, European countries also believe that any diplomatic efforts should be coordinated with the United States, and the main pressure should be directed specifically at Moscow, and not at Kyiv.
Earlier, the agency reported that senior officials of the russian Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank warned putin about the growing burden of military spending on the russian economy. However, according to Bloomberg, the russian leader has not yet changed his course and instructed to maintain funding for the defense sector by reducing spending in other areas.
As Ukrainian News Agency earlier reported, on May 29, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said that the trilateral talks (Ukraine, the United States and russia) are on hold. He believes that a meeting at the leadership level is necessary for progress.
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