The European Union’s top diplomat has firmly rejected the idea of Europe acting as a “neutral mediator” between Ukraine and Russia, underscoring the bloc’s alignment with Kyiv and its own security interests.

Speaking after a meeting of foreign ministers in Cyprus, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stressed that neutrality was not an option. “Europe will never be a neutral mediator between Russia and Ukraine, because we are on Ukraine’s side and we are defending our own core security interests,” she said.

The debate comes as Washington’s efforts to halt the war stall, with U.S. President Donald Trump focused on Iran. Ukraine has urged Europe to step up and even floated the idea of appointing a representative for talks.

Speculation over potential envoys has grown, with Russian President Vladimir Putin suggesting former German chancellor Gerhard Schroeder — a proposal widely dismissed in Europe. Some ministers, including Austria’s Beate Meinl-Reisinger and Finland’s Elina Valtonen, backed naming a figure, while others, like Luxembourg’s Xavier Bettel, floated former EU chief Jean-Claude Juncker.

Kallas, however, warned that focusing on personalities was a “Russian trap” and pushed for setting firm red lines. These include demanding a ceasefire before any talks, rejecting Moscow’s territorial claims, and curbing Russia’s military power.

European officials believe Putin is weakened by economic strain, mounting casualties, and Ukraine’s drone strikes, but remain sceptical of his willingness to negotiate sincerely. Lithuania’s foreign minister Kestutis Budrys summed up the mood: “We have to discuss what we are doing to put additional pressure on Russia and also give more assistance to Ukraine.”

The EU is now preparing its 21st round of sanctions against Moscow since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, signalling continued resolve to tighten the pressure.