European leaders disagree on whether to resume direct talks with Russia

French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that preparations are underway for potential contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming for a 'European approach' to dialogue. Macron's top diplomat visited Moscow for talks, and the Kremlin confirmed that contacts between Russia and France are happening at a working level.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has sharply criticized Putin and ruled out a normalization of relations, stating the EU is willing to talk but will not hold 'parallel' talks. Other European figures are divided, with some, like Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, calling for direct dialogue, while others, like Estonian officials, reject the idea.

The debate centers on whether and how the European Union should engage with Russia. Macron says technical channels for dialogue have been restored, but he does not expect a conversation with Putin in the immediate coming days.