Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has said that Europe needs to start direct talks with Russia on the issue of Ukraine and has called for the appointment of a European Union special envoy for the settlement process.

According to Meloni, the time has come for Europe itself to engage in dialogue with Moscow. She warned that if the EU chooses to take part in the negotiation phase while communicating with only one side, its ability to make a meaningful contribution to a final outcome will be limited.

Meloni pointed out that one of Europe’s core problems is the lack of a unified position caused by the existence of numerous divergent views within the bloc. In this context, she reiterated her support for appointing a dedicated EU special envoy on Ukraine, who would be able to consolidate positions and allow Europe to speak with a single, coordinated voice.