EU and Germany Reject Putin’s Proposal of Schröder as Ukraine Mediator
The European Union and German government firmly rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal to appoint former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a mediator for Ukraine peace talks. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and Ukrainian officials dismissed the idea, citing Schröder’s close ties to Moscow and role as a Russian energy lobbyist as major conflicts of interest. While some SPD members suggested discussing the offer, Berlin viewed it as a deceptive tactic to divide Europe. Concurrently, EU ministers prepared new sanctions regarding deported Ukrainian children and planned internal discussions on future diplomatic demands.
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SPD's Stegner Defends Schröder-Putin Meeting as Potential Mediation Opportunity in Ukraine War
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder in Moscow for a one-on-one conversation, according to the Kremlin. While the German federal government reacted cautiously and declined to comment, SPD foreign politician Ralf Stegner publicly defended the meeting. Stegner told Tagesspiegel that Schröder's access to Putin should be seen as an opportunity rather than a risk, arguing that 'every attempt' by an elder statesman to influence Putin is valuable. Stegner emphasized that Schröder was not in the Kremlin to congratulate Putin on the war, and that while Schröder cannot be a negotiator for the West, he can serve as a mediator. The Kremlin confirmed the meeting through Putin's foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov, who described it as a 'good conversation' but provided no details on content. Putin had previously expressed interest in Schröder acting as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict.
Nachrichten - WELTGerhard Schröder Meets Putin in Kremlin; Kremlin Touts Him as Mediator in Ukraine War
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder in the Kremlin for a one-on-one conversation, according to Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov. Putin has publicly advocated for Schröder as a 'neutral mediator' between the EU and Russia in the Ukraine war, stating that only trusted individuals could serve as intermediaries. The meeting comes amid severely strained EU-Russia relations following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that the push for Schröder as mediator is a 'trap' set by Russia. Meanwhile, German government circles indicated that a 'window is slowly opening' for talks with Russia, though fighting is expected to continue for months. The E3 format (Germany, UK, France) is being discussed as a potential European negotiating framework.
taz.de - taz.deGerhard Schröder meets Putin in Kremlin; Putin pushes him as mediator in Ukraine war
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder in the Kremlin for a one-on-one conversation, described as 'good' by Putin's foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov. Putin has publicly advocated for Schröder as a 'neutral mediator' between the EU and Russia in the Ukraine war, stating that only trusted people can serve as middlemen. The meeting comes amid severely strained EU-Russia relations since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that the mediator proposal is a Russian trap. Despite ongoing hostilities, the German government believes a window for talks with Russia may open in the coming months, with the E3 (Germany, UK, France) expected to play a key role. Schröder's role remains controversial in Germany.
taz.de - taz.dePutin-Schröder Meeting Confirmed; Kyiv Rejects Schröder as Mediator
The Kremlin has confirmed a personal meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder. However, Ukrainian officials in Kyiv have stated that Schröder is not a viable candidate for a neutral mediator role in the conflict, citing his longstanding close ties to Putin. The report, filed by WELT correspondent Max Hermes from Kyiv, highlights the ongoing diplomatic complexities and the West's reluctance to involve Schröder in peace efforts. The meeting underscores Putin's awareness that Western powers will not seek Schröder's mediation, given his perceived bias.
Nachrichten - WELTKremlin Confirms Putin Met with Former German Chancellor Schröder in Moscow
The Kremlin confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin met with former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder for one-on-one talks in Moscow. Putin had recently proposed Schröder as a mediator for negotiations between the EU and Russia regarding the Ukraine war. Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov confirmed the meeting but provided no details on the content or potential negotiation prospects. Schröder, 82, has maintained a friendship with Putin and previously worked as a lobbyist for Russian energy companies, though he has distanced himself from Russia's war. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz rejected the idea of imposed mediators, stating Europeans decide their own representatives. Former Munich Security Conference chairman Wolfgang Ischinger dismissed Putin's proposal as a divisive maneuver. The meeting occurred amid ongoing tensions over Western arms deliveries to Ukraine.
Nachrichten - WELTPutin Defends Schröder as Trusted EU Mediator for Ukraine Talks
Russian President Vladimir Putin defended his proposal to appoint former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as an EU negotiator in the Ukraine war, calling him a 'person you can trust' during a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan. Putin argued that friendship with Schröder is not a negative factor and emphasized the need for a partner who avoids harsh tones toward Russia. He accused the EU of refusing dialogue with Moscow. The proposal, first raised on May 9, was largely rejected in Brussels. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Europeans decide their own representatives. Reactions within Germany's SPD were mixed, with some officials open to the idea and others opposing it. Former Munich Security Conference chair Wolfgang Ischinger dismissed the proposal as a divisive maneuver.
Nachrichten - WELTRussia will not choose who speaks for Europe in potential Ukraine talks, EU ministers say
European Union foreign ministers, meeting informally in Cyprus on May 28, 2026, rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin's suggestion that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder could represent Europe in potential Ukraine peace talks. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the proposal a 'trap' and stressed that negotiations are a team effort. Ministers emphasized the need for a unified EU stance before any talks with Moscow, with several stating that Europe, not Russia, will decide its negotiator. While some ministers signaled openness to designating an envoy in the future, others said the discussion is premature. The meeting focused on defining a common approach to Russia and increasing pressure on Moscow while supporting Ukraine. No formal decisions were expected from the gathering.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Kallas: Russia Weak, China Could Help Force End to War
Kaja Kallas, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated that Russia is currently in a weak negotiating position in its war against Ukraine. Speaking before an EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, Kallas argued that Moscow must be pushed to the negotiating table to end the conflict. She noted that peace processes have currently reached a deadlock with no significant progress. Kallas highlighted China's potential role in this dynamic, suggesting that Beijing, due to its close relations with Russia, could leverage its influence to convince Moscow to stop the war. This perspective aligns with recent comments from other European leaders, such as Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda, who have emphasized applying pressure on Russia rather than engaging in premature dialogue. The remarks come ahead of an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers scheduled for late May, where strategies for potential negotiations and demands on Moscow are expected to be discussed.
Ukrainska PravdaKremlin Says Kallas Would Face Difficult Time as Negotiator with Russia
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas would face significant difficulties if she attempted to serve as a negotiator with Moscow. Speaking to journalist Pavel Zarubin, Peskov advised that it is in Kallas's best interest to avoid this role, noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously indicated a preference for interlocutors who have not extensively criticized Russia. Peskov referenced Putin's earlier suggestion that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder would be a preferred candidate for facilitating negotiations between the EU and Russia, emphasizing that Moscow remains open to dialogue. However, Kallas has explicitly ruled out Schroeder's involvement due to his close ties with the Kremlin and has asserted her own readiness to lead such diplomatic efforts. This exchange highlights the deepening diplomatic rift and the challenges in establishing a mutually acceptable framework for potential peace talks or negotiations between the European Union and Russia amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. The statement underscores Moscow's selective approach to diplomatic engagement and its rejection of current EU leadership figures perceived as hostile.
TASSKremlin Dismisses EU Envoy Debate as Premature Without Commitment to Talks
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that the European Union's internal debate over selecting a representative for potential negotiations with Russia is irrelevant until Brussels makes a political decision to resume dialogue. This statement follows recent speculation ignited by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who suggested former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as a suitable envoy. The proposal was swiftly rejected by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, who labeled Schroeder a Russian lobbyist, while media reports identified outgoing German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier as another potential candidate. Peskov emphasized that identifying specific individuals is meaningless without a foundational commitment to diplomacy from the EU. While Western nations have largely isolated Russia since the 2022 escalation of the Ukraine conflict, some political figures, such as Germany’s SPD foreign policy spokesman Adis Ahmetovic, argue for a pragmatic approach to ensure Europe has a seat at the negotiating table. Putin maintained that European governments are free to nominate any representative who has not publicly slandered Russia, asserting that Moscow did not refuse talks. The Kremlin views the current focus on personnel rather than political will as a distraction from the necessary steps toward peace.
RT - Daily newsEU Rejects Putin's Proposal for Gerhard Schroeder in Security Talks
European Union foreign ministers have firmly rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin's suggestion that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder should represent European interests in future security negotiations with Moscow. During a meeting in Brussels, EU officials expressed deep skepticism regarding Russia's sincerity in ending the war in Ukraine and negotiating genuine peace arrangements. Putin had previously indicated his willingness to discuss new security frameworks for Europe, citing Schroeder as his preferred partner due to their long-standing relationship. However, EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas dismissed the proposal, arguing that allowing Russia to appoint a negotiator on behalf of Europe would be unwise. She highlighted Schroeder's close ties to Russian state companies and Putin, suggesting that such an arrangement would effectively allow Russia to sit on both sides of the negotiating table. Kallas also implied her own suitability for such roles, emphasizing the need for leaders who can identify and avoid Russian diplomatic traps. The rejection underscores the continued distrust between the EU and Russia despite recent claims by Putin that the conflict is nearing its end.
News - South China Morning PostPutin Proposes Ex-German Chancellor Schröder as Mediator for Ukraine Peace Talks
Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder should mediate peace negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the European Union. Putin expressed a preference for Schröder, citing their long-standing personal relationship, while hinting at an imminent end to the war in Ukraine. This proposal was met with immediate rejection from European officials and the German government, who argued that Schröder lacks the necessary impartiality due to his close ties with Moscow and roles in Russian energy companies like Rosneft and Nord Stream. Critics view the suggestion as a strategic attempt to divide the Western alliance rather than a genuine effort toward diplomacy. Schröder, who served as Germany's chancellor from 1998 to 2005, famously described Putin as a 'flawless democrat' and maintained strong relations with the Kremlin even after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Berlin stated there are no signs of serious Russian interest in negotiations, highlighting ongoing mutual accusations of ceasefire breaches. The article details Schröder's political background, his post-chancellorship career in the Russian energy sector, and the resulting strain on his reputation in Germany.
The Independent WorldPutin's Proposal for Schroder as Ukraine Mediator Divides German Coalition
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s suggestion that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder mediate peace between Moscow and Kyiv has reignited political divisions within Germany’s CDU-SPD coalition government. The proposal highlights persistent rifts in Berlin regarding Russia policy, with the conservative CDU firmly supporting Ukraine and rejecting Schröder due to his ties to Russian state energy firms. In contrast, factions within the center-left SPD argue that diplomatic channels should remain open, with some members stating Schröder’s involvement should not be categorically ruled out to secure a European seat at potential negotiations. However, prominent Social Democrats and EU officials have criticized the move as a Kremlin tactic to sow discord in the West. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas dismissed the idea, labeling Schröder a high-level lobbyist for Russian interests who would effectively represent both sides. Critics within the CDU describe the initiative as a smoke screen designed to distract from Russia’s ongoing imperialist war aims, emphasizing that increased military support for Kyiv remains the only viable path to pressure the Kremlin. The debate underscores the delicate balance Germany faces in maintaining coalition unity while navigating complex geopolitical pressures.
Digi24EU Ministers to Discuss Direct Talks with Russia Amid Putin's Negotiator Proposal
European Union foreign ministers are scheduled to discuss the possibility of initiating direct talks with Russia during an informal meeting in Cyprus later this month. This development occurs as U.S.-led efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine remain stalled. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized the need for internal consensus on negotiation goals and demanded concessions from Moscow. While European Council President António Costa acknowledged potential for dialogue if Kyiv agrees, he noted a lack of serious engagement signals from Russia. Tensions rose after Vladimir Putin proposed former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a potential negotiator, a suggestion firmly rejected by both Kallas and Berlin due to Schröder’s ties to Russian state firms. Ukrainian officials have called for stronger EU coordination and pressure on Moscow. The discussions aim to address security concerns and prevent further Russian attacks on neighboring states, reflecting the bloc’s cautious approach to diplomacy amidst ongoing conflict.
The Moscow Times - Independent News From RussiaUkraine Rejects Schröder as Potential EU Negotiator
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has firmly rejected the candidacy of former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a potential negotiator for the European Union. This rejection comes in response to reports that Russia proposed Schröder for the role. Speaking ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, Sybiha stated unequivocally that Kyiv does not support such a candidacy, emphasizing that there are many other worthy leaders available for this diplomatic function. The proposal has drawn criticism from EU officials as well, with High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas noting Schröder's history as a lobbyist for Russian companies. She remarked that it is unsurprising Vladimir Putin would favor him for such a position. The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding diplomatic representation and the influence of pro-Russian figures in European politics. Ukraine's stance underscores its determination to ensure that any future negotiations or diplomatic engagements involving the EU are conducted by individuals who do not have conflicting interests or ties to the Russian Federation, maintaining the integrity of the peace process and international relations.
Latest newsEU Foreign Policy Chief Kallas Rejects Schröder as Mediator in Russia Talks
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has firmly rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal to appoint former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a European representative in future negotiations with Moscow. Speaking before a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels, Kallas argued that allowing Russia to select an EU negotiator is unwise, noting Schröder's ties to Russian state-owned companies would create a conflict of interest. The foreign ministers convened to discuss imposing further sanctions on individuals and organizations responsible for the deportation and forced adoption of Ukrainian children. Approximately 20,000 children have been trafficked to Russia or occupied territories since 2022, with only around 2,100 returned. Additionally, the EU is preparing to disburse the first tranche of a 90 billion euro loan package to Ukraine. The agenda also included discussions on potential sanctions against Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank, developments in the Iran conflict, and EU relations with Canada, Syria, and the Western Balkans.
DiePresse.com - HomeOutrage in Germany Over Putin's Proposal to Appoint Schröder as Peace Negotiator
Vladimir Putin’s suggestion to appoint former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a peace negotiator for the Ukraine conflict has triggered strong negative reactions in Germany. Schröder, a long-time personal friend of Putin and former board member of Nord Stream, is widely viewed in Germany as symbolizing a failed foreign policy strategy that created dependence on Russian energy. Major German newspapers, including Süddeutsche Zeitung and Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, dismissed the proposal as absurd and a sham maneuver aimed at dividing Europe. The German government rejects the idea, fearing it could exploit war fatigue among the public. The proposal has intensified internal political tensions, particularly within the governing Social Democratic Party (SPD), which faces pressure from both its peace-oriented base and the rising right-wing AfD party. Critics describe the move as insidious, noting that Putin has already succeeded in creating divisions within Germany’s governing coalition. Despite some business circles favoring resumed ties with Russia, official stance remains firm against allowing Moscow to dictate security terms for Ukraine and Europe.
DN.se - Dagens NyheterEU to Discuss Potential Talks and Demands to Russia in May Meeting
Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced that European Union foreign ministers will convene for an informal meeting in Cyprus on May 27–28. The primary agenda involves discussing potential dialogue with Russia and defining specific demands the bloc should present to Moscow. Kallas emphasized the necessity for internal consensus on negotiation topics before engaging with Russia, highlighting ongoing security threats posed by Russian aggression against neighboring states. She stressed that any path toward stability requires concessions from the Russian side, citing the withdrawal of Russian troops from Moldova as a potential condition for regional security. This development follows Kallas's rejection of former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a negotiation candidate, a stance supported by official Germany, which viewed Putin's proposal as an attempt to divide Europe. The discussions aim to establish a unified European position on concessions required for a potential agreement to end the Russo-Ukrainian war, reflecting the EU's strategic approach to maintaining peace and security amidst continued conflict.
Ukrainska PravdaEU Foreign Ministers to Adopt New Sanctions Against Russia on May 11
European Union foreign ministers are expected to adopt a new package of sanctions against Russia on May 11, according to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. The measures specifically target the issue of Ukrainian children evacuated from combat zones during the early stages of the conflict. These sanctions involve adding individuals to the EU blacklist, resulting in entry bans and asset freezes within the community. Additionally, Kallas explicitly ruled out former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a potential negotiator with Russia, citing his history as a lobbyist for Russian companies and the resulting conflict of interest. She stated that Schröder would effectively be sitting on both sides of the negotiating table. Instead, EU foreign ministers are scheduled to discuss the possibility of future negotiations with Russia and formulate a list of European demands at the end of May. This announcement coincides with an informal meeting of foreign ministers in Cyprus, where further strategic discussions regarding diplomatic engagement with Moscow are planned. The move underscores the EU's continued hardline stance on accountability for war-related actions while carefully managing the framework for any potential future dialogue.
TASSKallas Rejects Russia's Right to Appoint EU Negotiator, Citing Schröder's Lobbying Ties
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas firmly stated that Russia has no authority to appoint a negotiator on behalf of the European Union. Her remarks came ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting, addressing Kremlin suggestions that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder should serve as the EU’s representative in potential negotiations. Kallas highlighted Schröder’s well-documented role as a high-level lobbyist for Russian state-owned companies, arguing that his selection by Vladimir Putin is strategic rather than neutral. She emphasized that allowing Russia to choose the EU’s negotiator would be unwise, as it would effectively place an individual with strong Russian interests on both sides of the negotiating table. This stance underscores the EU’s commitment to maintaining independent diplomatic representation amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. The statement coincides with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha’s visit to Brussels for related diplomatic engagements, reinforcing the bloc’s unified approach to security and foreign policy challenges posed by the conflict.
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