The Kremlin said Monday it views growing discussion in Europe about the need for dialogue with Russia as a positive sign, though the situation remains at an early stage.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state news agency RIA Novosti that Moscow “welcomes” the shift but added, “We are still only at the beginning. We will see how things develop.”
His comments followed remarks by President Vladimir Putin, who said Saturday he would prefer former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder to act as a mediator in any talks between Russia and Europe. Putin said Europeans should choose a figure they trust and who has not made hostile statements toward Russia.
Earlier, European Council President António Costa said he was consulting EU leaders on preparations for negotiations with Russia once “the right moment arrives.”