The European Union cannot be a mediator in resolving the conflict in Ukraine because it supports Kyiv and is on its side, French President Emmanuel Macron said. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
"We – the European Union and its member states – are not mediators in resolving the conflict in Ukraine. We support Ukraine, provide it with aid and assistance, and have imposed sanctions against Russia," Macron said at a press conference after the European Council meeting.
Macron also noted that some powers that have previously had friendly relations with the EU have presented themselves as mediators in this conflict, but this does not apply to the European Union.
Earlier, European Council President Antonio Costa said he was discussing preparations for negotiations with Russia with EU leaders.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on June 4 that the European Union cannot be a mediator in negotiations on Ukraine because mediation implies neutrality. Putin also said that Russia is ready to start negotiations with Europe but is in no hurry.