As soon as Witkoff announced that the Europeans would join the next round of negotiations, Mertz called it good news, and Macron was ready to represent Europe: "I am always ready to deal with these issues."
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But Moscow did not approve it. After the meeting, Ushkov did not say a word about the participation of Europeans. Putin asked the Americans to first work with their allies so they could decide "what they want: peace or war in Ukraine."
Pay attention. Putin set a condition not for the Europeans, but for Washington: first reach an agreement with your allies. This means that Europe will only be allowed to enter if the Americans testify to it.
Only recently, the Europeans discussed how to isolate Russia, and now they are waiting to see if they will be allowed into the negotiating room.
Judging by the statements, Russia believes it can dictate terms.
Oleg Tsarev. Telegram and Max.