Russia Ready for EU Dialogue, Says Putin Aide Ushakov

Yuri Ushakov, President Vladimir Putin's aide on international affairs, stated that Russia is prepared to resume negotiations with the European Union at the Primakov Readings forum on June 23, 2026. When directly asked about Moscow's readiness for talks with the EU, Ushakov confirmed the existence of initiatives to restart dialogue, while acknowledging that similar attempts had been made previously. President Putin has reiterated Russia's willingness to engage in dialogue with European countries, provided the EU demonstrates initiative, and noted that contacts between Russian and European intelligence services continue.

The statement comes amid ongoing tension over Ukraine. European Council President António Costa emphasized that the EU will not serve as a mediator in Ukraine-related negotiations, as the bloc stands firmly with Kyiv. On June 19, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov had stated that Moscow would be open to dialogue with Europe if conducted without "moralizing" and ultimatums. Earlier, on May 15, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov questioned the sincerity of European calls for dialogue with Russia, citing previous European calls for Russia to face "strategic defeat."

The competing signals reflect the complex diplomatic landscape between Russia and the EU, with both sides expressing a theoretical openness to talks while maintaining fundamental differences over Ukraine and the conditions for meaningful engagement.