Costa backs US talks on Ukraine but urges EU readiness

European Council President António Costa said it is not yet appropriate to intervene in US President Donald Trump’s peace initiatives concerning the war in Ukraine.

He added that if the US-led negotiations fail or are suspended, the European Union must be ready to take the initiative and continue efforts towards a ‘just and lasting peace’.

Washington’s diplomatic efforts to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv have slowed in recent weeks as US attention has shifted to the conflict with Iran.

According to Costa, the EU should for now focus on increasing economic pressure on Russia and continuing to support Ukraine by all available means. Rising energy prices do not change the Union’s strategy, which aims to reduce dependence on Russian supplies and avoids negotiating prices with Moscow.

Ukraine has been defending itself against Russia’s invasion for more than four years, with continued financial support from the EU. Costa also criticised Hungary for blocking a €90 billion aid package for Kyiv.

(dpa, est)