EU weighs a negotiating mandate with Moscow while Kyiv leads diplomacy
EU leaders discussed a potential formal mandate to negotiate with Moscow, with Ursula von der Leyen saying now is the time to prepare while Kyiv must drive the talks; sanctions are biting as Russia's economy slows and inflation rises. Zelenskyy insists any talks require Russia's willingness, security guarantees, and no territorial concessions, while Putin's readiness remains doubtful. Costa opened a diplomatic line with Moscow, sparking debate about who negotiates and even a proposed Coalition of the Willing led by France and the UK to handle security guarantees.