European governments push EU to appoint special negotiator for Ukraine talks

Several European governments, led by France and Italy, are urging the European Union to appoint a special negotiator to represent the bloc’s interests in any future talks regarding Ukraine. This initiative, detailed in a Politico report citing multiple diplomats and officials, stems from growing concerns that bilateral negotiations between the United States and Russia could marginalize Europe on issues critical to its own security, such as Ukraine’s sovereignty and future European defense arrangements.

Fears of Being Sidelined by US-Russia Dialogue

The push reflects anxiety in capitals like Paris and Rome that Washington’s direct engagement with Moscow might not adequately reflect European “red lines,” including opposition to any settlement that compromises Ukraine’s territorial integrity or leaves the continent vulnerable. “There are some issues which cannot be discussed with (only) the US when they have direct implications on our security as Europeans,” one EU official stated. Former US envoy Kurt Volker noted that Brussels would need to be more assertive to avoid exclusion from the process.

Coordinated Diplomatic Outreach and Internal EU Discussions

French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have recently coordinated calls for opening diplomatic channels with Moscow, despite skepticism about Russia’s willingness to negotiate in good faith. Within Brussels, discussions are centered on how the EU could contribute to potential negotiations and safeguard its interests. The idea of a special envoy was initially raised at an EU summit in March but was not adopted; talks now focus on the envoy's mandate, including whether they would engage directly with Russia or support Ukraine alongside the bloc.

Potential Candidates and Ongoing Deliberations

While the proposal has gained some support within the European Commission and among member states, no formal decision has been made. Names informally suggested by diplomats include former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi and Finnish President Alexander Stubb. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas is also positioning herself as a central figure in coordinating the bloc's stance. Officials stress that discussions are preliminary, and significant differences remain over the scope and authority of such a role.