EU ministers meet in Brussels as ‘new momentum’ gives Europe hope on Ukraine – Europe live

Foreign ministers meet to discuss latest on Ukraine, the Middle East and the western Balkans

German Europe minister Gunther Krichbaum has just shot down Vladimir Putin’s suggestion that former pro-Russian German chancellor Gerhard Schröder could act as a mediator on Ukraine.

Schröder, 82, has remained close to Putin long after leaving office, standing apart from most western leaders since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

“As you know, a mediator must be accepted by both sides, and this seems to be noticeably lacking here.”

“Close friendships may be legitimate everywhere in the world, but they do not contribute to being perceived as an honest mediating partner.”