EU currently not planning to appoint negotiator with Russia

The European Union is not yet planning to appoint a chief negotiator for possible peace talks on ending Russia's war against Ukraine.

Senior EU officials and diplomats DPA on the sidelines of an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Cyprus that EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and key member states, including Germany, do not consider such a step appropriate at this stage.

Sources told the agency that the EU wants to focus on strategy rather than personalities first. What is considered important is which issues the EU should discuss with Russia and how it can support diplomatic efforts aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the EU is expected to continue preparing additional sanctions against Russia, as senior EU officials do not believe Russian leader Vladimir Putin is willing to engage in genuine negotiations.

According to the agency, on 28 May, the European Commission and the European External Action Service will present member states with proposals for the 21st sanctions package against Russia, targeting the financial sector and defence industry suppliers.

The European Commission previously stated that discussions on the candidacy of an EU envoy for participation in peace talks on Ukraine would be appropriate when Russia demonstrates genuine willingness to end the war.

The European Union remains divided over the appointment of a European representative for direct dialogue with Russia as part of negotiations on peace in Ukraine.