EADaily- Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed skepticism about Donald Trump’s prediction of a major peace agreement with Russia, stating he sees no signs that Putin is ready for a deal.
- On October 27, Støre and Finnish President Alexander Stubb had a telephone conversation with Putin, which Støre described as businesslike.
- Støre defended the call, asserting that Putin is not isolated and that Washington is the only voice Moscow hears.
- The upcoming talks in Abu Dhabi are expected to cover several critical issues, including a ceasefire in the Black Sea, an energy truce, a front-line freeze, prisoner exchanges, and security guarantees.
- Despite the conversation, Støre remains cautious about the prospects for peace, stating he sees no signs that Putin is truly open to a deal.
- Støre's remarks come amid a split among European allies regarding relations with Russia, highlighting deep disagreements on how to proceed.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre remains doubtful about a peace agreement with Russia, asserting that President Putin is 'not isolated' and that Washington is the only voice Moscow hears. During a recent call with Putin, Støre described the conversation as 'businesslike' and 'sound'.12345
Støre criticized the lack of direct European communication with Russia, which he believes hampers peace efforts. He noted that if Putin truly desired peace, the war would have ended long ago, highlighting the ongoing conflict's toll on neighboring countries and Russia itself.
Looking ahead to discussions, Støre mentioned potential topics including ceasefires in the Black Sea, energy truces, and prisoner exchanges. He defended the decision to maintain a direct line of communication with the Kremlin, despite criticism, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in resolving the conflict.6
Støre's remarks come amid a backdrop of deep divisions among European allies regarding relations with Russia, underscoring the complexities of the geopolitical landscape as the war in Ukraine continues to unfold.
“Støre and Finnish President Stubb held a phone call with Putin on October 27, which Støre defended as 'businesslike', but it also revealed deep European divisions over Russia policy. He cautioned that Abu Dhabi is 'a stepping stone', and its outcome must lead to further steps soon, including a Black Sea ceasefire and prisoner exchanges.”
