Kallas: Kushner finally admits Europe must help shape outcome of Ukraine peace talks

Estonia advocates for António Costa and Kaja Kallas to represent the European Union in discussions aimed at concluding Russia's conflict in Ukraine. Estonian Prime Minister Kristal Michal suggested this proposal during an interview with Politico. Michal stated that both Costa and Kallas have received mandates from EU member states, which eliminates the need to establish a new negotiation format or designate a special envoy.

Michal emphasized that the representatives are accountable to the EU member states, as their mandates originate directly from the European Council. He argued that European countries should entrust their representation to officials with the necessary authority, rather than searching for candidates who may be acceptable to Russia.

Michal expressed indifference to Russia's opinion, stating that "If the Russians do not like it, that is their problem. We should be represented by people we trust and who are accountable to the EU, not by those Putin likes." The matter of selecting representatives for European negotiations is anticipated to be deliberated at an informal European Council summit in Dublin on November 13.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni instigated this discussion by sending a letter to Costa, criticizing the absence of a unified European position, warning that a divided approach could exacerbate the war. Earlier, Kallas indicated that the EU should be represented in peace talks by the heads of its institutions, whose leadership was established following the 2024 European elections.