European capitals are pressing the EU to appoint a special negotiator on Ukraine, amid growing concern that the United States could strike a deal with Russia without consulting Europe.
France and Italy are leading the push. Diplomats told POLITICO that they have secured backing inside the European Commission and among several EU member states.
Supporters say a European voice is essential to defending key positions, including Ukraine’s potential NATO membership and its territorial integrity.
The debate comes as the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year. European capitals fear being sidelined in any agreement that could affect Ukraine’s future and their security.
With US-Russia talks ongoing, some say EU governments face a narrow window to assert influence and ensure Europe is not left out of talks.
US President Donald Trump has pursued direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, keeping European capitals on the sidelines. So far, peace efforts have not yielded results, with Moscow refusing to compromise on its territorial claims to Ukrainian land.
Macron and Meloni push for engagement
French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have urged the EU to open diplomatic channels with Putin and his inner circle.
A senior French official said Europe must engage “not to create illusions, but to make sure our security interests are protected.”
Supporters of the envoy argue that Europe needs a way to communicate its priorities directly to both Washington and Moscow.
“There are some issues which cannot be discussed with [only] the US when they have direct implications on our security as Europeans,” said an EU diplomat involved in the discussions.
Opposition and candidates
The proposal faces significant opposition. Critics warn that appointing an EU negotiator could send the wrong signal to Moscow, implying that Russia is negotiating in good faith.
Others question whether the envoy should speak only for the EU or represent a wider coalition, including the UK and other partners.
There is also debate over who should take the role. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, a former Estonian prime minister and a strong ally of Kyiv, is widely seen as a natural candidate.
However, some diplomats have suggested former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi or Finnish President Alexander Stubb, citing their diplomatic experience and access to Washington.
EU officials stress that no decision has been made and that the role does not yet exist. A senior EU diplomat said: “None of these jobs exist – until they suddenly do.”