Merz: EU Ready to Talk to Russia, but with Certain Condition

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that the European Union is always ready to hold talks with Russia to end the war in Ukraine, but these should not be “parallel” channels of communication. This was reported by Reuters, according to eurointegration.com.ua. During a press conference in Abu Dhabi, where Merz arrived as part of his Middle East tour, the chancellor spoke of his readiness for dialogue with Moscow. However, according to the German chancellor, such contacts should not interfere with the main negotiation process, which has recently intensified in Abu Dhabi. “We are, of course, always ready to negotiate with Russia. Coordinated negotiations are currently underway in Abu Dhabi. If we can help make these negotiations even better and more successful, we will do so. But we will not open any parallel channels of communication,” Merz replied. In December, French President Emmanuel Macron stated the need to restore direct contacts between Europe and Russia. This week, Macron told reporters that the Élysée Palace is continuing its efforts to restore dialogue with Putin, adding that this is being done in consultation with Ukraine.