Media: Meloni pushes for single European representative in Ukraine peace talks

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is expected to raise the question of appointing a single European representative for potential negotiations on a Russian–Ukrainian settlement at upcoming EU and G7 summits, according to Corriere della Sera.

The newspaper reports that Rome may propose Finnish President Alexander Stubb as a potential candidate for the role.

According to the outlet, Meloni has expressed frustration over delays in defining a European mediator for Ukraine, with some of that dissatisfaction directed at French President Emmanuel Macron. It claims she opposes what she sees as efforts by certain capitals to dominate the process.

The report adds that Meloni believes Europe should not be represented by a single major country alone in the peace process, arguing this could fuel rivalry and “jealousy” among EU member states and undermine unity. Instead, she reportedly supports a figure capable of representing broader European interests, including non-EU partners such as the United Kingdom and Norway, which have supported Kyiv.

In this context, the Finnish president is seen as a strong candidate due to his international profile and reportedly good relations with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Corriere della Sera also notes that Portuguese European Council President António Costa is being considered as another possible option.

Earlier, speaking in parliament, Meloni stressed the need to appoint a single European representative for talks on the Russian–Ukrainian conflict, though she did not name any candidates. She also criticised what she described as “certain formats” that are insufficiently representative.

By Sabina Mammadli