Finnish FM: Not the Right Time for Talks with Russia

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen has said that it is not the appropriate time to begin negotiations with Russia. In an interview with Yle, she noted that the European Union is having discussions about re-establishing contact, but emphasized the need to first align objectives and determine the desired course of action. According to Valtonen, the EU has already made considerable progress in this regard. The issue was previously discussed at an EU summit, where the majority of leaders, including Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, agreed that the current timing is not suitable. Finnish President Alexander Stubb had earlier stated that Europe should establish contact with Russia within two months. Valtonen said that the resumption of contact depends on developments on the front line and the overall situation in Ukraine, but most importantly on Russia's genuine desire for peace. She observed that no such signs have been seen, despite Russia's significantly worsened military and economic situation. Valtonen believes that Russia will sooner or later show willingness to negotiate. She also mentioned that the July NATO summit in Turkey would be a venue for a broader examination of the situation.