EU Calls for Unity and Stronger Pressure on Russia After Leaders Speak With Putin
BRUSSELS, October 27, 2026: The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to increasing pressure on Russia and pursuing meaningful peace negotiations following recent telephone conversations between Russian President Vladimir Putin, Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store.
Speaking to Anadolu on Tuesday, an EU spokesperson said the bloc had taken note of the bilateral discussion, which followed a meeting held in Oslo on October 20.
The spokesperson emphasized that EU member states remained united in their determination to end Russia’s war against Ukraine and achieve a just and lasting peace. The European Council has also reiterated its intention to intensify pressure on Moscow to end its military campaign and participate in serious peace negotiations.
European leaders further highlighted the need to maintain military assistance to Ukraine, arguing that Russia had provided no clear indication of its willingness to end the conflict.
The EU’s position comes amid criticism from several European leaders regarding the recent diplomatic contacts. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed concern that the initiative had not been coordinated with other European countries. She warned that individual efforts to engage Moscow could weaken Europe’s collective position and stressed the importance of maintaining unity.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna also called for stronger pressure on Russia, insisting that every diplomatic interaction with Moscow should demonstrate Europe’s determination to support Ukraine.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys similarly argued that Europe must have a meaningful role in negotiations concerning Ukraine. He warned against separate diplomatic initiatives, stressing that any engagement with Russia should be supported by a common European position, effective leverage and clearly defined demands.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson reiterated Stockholm’s support for Ukraine, stating that Russia had shown no genuine interest in peace. He argued that Moscow appeared to be seeking Ukraine’s submission, an outcome European countries would not accept.
The statements highlight continuing divisions over diplomatic approaches to Moscow, while EU leaders maintain that coordinated pressure and sustained support for Ukraine remain essential to achieving a lasting settlement.
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