German official: a window for dialogue on Ukraine is opening between Europe and Russia

A window of opportunity for dialogue on ending the conflict in Ukraine is gradually opening between Russia and Europe.

This was stated by an unnamed German official, whose words are cited by Reuters.

According to the official, Europeans could initiate dialogue with Russia provided it takes place in a format that European countries would recognize as legitimate and effective. The official also pointed to signs that Germany, France, and the United Kingdom would play a leading role on this issue.

“Recent hostilities indicate that the dialogue process will likely take months rather than weeks, and that it is critically important to ensure it is conducted in full agreement with Ukraine,” Reuters quotes the official as saying.

In addition, he stressed the need for coordination rather than competition with the United States on the question of achieving peace.

Against this backdrop, a debate has erupted over potential negotiators. On May 9, during a briefing, Vladimir Putin named former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as his preferred negotiator for dialogue between Russia and Europe. According to the Russian leader, European countries can choose a leader who has not “said any nasty things” about Moscow.

The proposal was rejected by the European side. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called Schröder a “high-ranking lobbyist for Russian state companies.” Germany’s current Chancellor Friedrich Merz also did not endorse the initiative, stating that the regional community would decide for itself who to appoint as negotiator.

Putin subsequently acknowledged that his proposed candidacy of Schröder had been received both negatively and positively in Europe. He noted that the former chancellor had always defended Germany’s interests despite their friendly relationship. Media outlets had previously reported Schröder’s presence in Moscow.