EU foreign ministers will discuss possible topics for future talks with Russia at their meeting on May 27–28, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said ahead of the session.

Speaking to reporters, Kallas said the European Union first needs to decide what it wants to raise with Moscow before entering any dialogue. She proposed that the bloc’s foreign ministers agree on a list of goals they want to achieve, adding that concessions would also be needed from the Russian side.

According to Kallas, the most important issues are those linked to ensuring stability and peace in Europe.

She also ruled out the idea of former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder acting as a mediator in talks with Moscow. Kallas argued that the European Union should not allow Russia to choose who negotiates on Brussels’ behalf.

In the same remarks, Kallas acknowledged that the European Commission has been unable to curb the growth of Russian influence in Europe. She pointed to Russian sports teams taking part in international competitions and the operation of Russia’s pavilion at the Venice Biennale as examples.

On May 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow was ready for talks with Europe. He described Schroeder as the most suitable figure for such a dialogue, while noting that Europe could choose its own representative. Putin added, however, that the person should not be someone known for sharp attacks against Russia.