Photo from the archive. Jens Stoltenberg calls for dialogue with Russia to address current issues
In an interview with the publication Spiegel, he noted: “First of all, we need to start talks with Russia about ending military actions in Ukraine. Furthermore, sooner or later we will need to discuss a new arms control structure. Finally, we must engage with Russia as a neighbor.”
Stoltenberg also emphasized that even during the Cold War, both sides found ways to limit nuclear arsenals. However, he added that restoring the level of “trust and openness” that existed then will be difficult.
Recalling a meeting with Vladimir Putin in 2000, when both were newly elected leaders, he said: “This marked the beginning of a long and productive relationship. We reached agreements in the energy sector, defined borders in the Barents Sea, and simplified the visa regime for residents of Kirkenes. Now we are significantly far from that, but that does not mean we should stop the dialogue,” said the former NATO chief.
Earlier, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also supported this idea, stating that it is time for Europe to start discussions with Russia. She noted that European leaders need to formulate a common position and begin negotiations not only with Kyiv but also with Moscow.
