Sybiha: Ukraine opposes former German chancellor Schröder's candidacy as EU negotiator with Russia

Ukraine does not support the nomination of Germany's former chancellor Gerhard Schröder for the role of EU negotiator with Russia.

"No, we do not support it. We categorically do not support such a candidacy," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting.

Sybiha added that there are "many other worthy leaders" who could serve as EU negotiator.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas previously stated that Schröder, who is effectively a lobbyist for Russian state companies, cannot be appointed as EU negotiator on ending the Russo-Ukrainian war.

Berlin also does not regard Putin's proposal on Schröder as EU negotiator with Russia as serious and sees it as an attempt to sow division in Europe and among German politicians.

Gerhard Schröder, 82, served as chancellor of Germany from 1998 to 2005 and led the SPD from 1999 to 2004. After leaving office, he worked for years in Russian energy companies and is still regarded as a close associate of Putin.