Le Monde: Europe seeks ways to resume dialogue with Russia

Europe is exploring ways to reopen channels of dialogue with Russia, Le Monde reports, amid growing debate over how to engage with Moscow as the war in Ukraine continues.

On May 29, Belarusian leader Aleksandr Lukashenko challenged French President Emmanuel Macron, saying: “You need to come and see Putin, sit down and have a man-to-man conversation!” The statement was widely seen as echoing Kremlin messaging.

Macron has increasingly voiced frustration over what he sees as Western Europe’s limited role in negotiations, arguing that Europeans should return to the table. “For months now, Macron has been telling anyone who will listen that it is time to reopen channels of communication with Russia,” the report noted.

While previously criticized for maintaining dialogue with Vladimir Putin after the invasion of Ukraine, Macron now finds his position gaining some traction in Europe. “There has been a shift in Europe’s position,” said a source close to European Council President Antonio Costa.

However, Russia says it has received no formal proposals. “But, to date, Moscow has not received any concrete proposals from the European Union,” the Russian embassy in Paris stated.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also supported renewed contact while emphasizing pressure on Moscow. “Before the winter, we need to find a way, diplomatic way, to sit and to speak,” he told CBS News on May 31, adding that sanctions should be intensified.

At the same time, Western officials warn of escalating tensions, including missile and drone activity near European borders. Analysts say Moscow may soon face a strategic decision over escalation or de-escalation.

“The Kremlin will soon face a fundamental choice over whether to radically escalate its demands on Russia's economy and society or to scale back its war aims,” said Nigel Gould-Davies of the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

The United States, meanwhile, has signaled reduced willingness to lead diplomatic efforts. “If someone else would like to handle it, they should,” said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

European governments are now discussing appointing a senior envoy for talks with Russia, though concerns remain in Paris that Moscow may reject a bureaucratic intermediary.

Diplomats stress that any dialogue must be carefully managed. “We have vital interests to defend. The Russians need to hear that,” said a French diplomat, adding that Europe’s aim is to define clear red lines.

Officials also emphasize lessons from previous negotiations, warning against repeating past dynamics where external actors pressured Kyiv over territorial concessions without full EU coordination.

By Vafa Guliyeva