Russian and Slovenian parliament speakers exchanged messages for the first time in four years, amid cautious remarks from Moscow about prospects for restoring bilateral relations.
Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia welcomes US President Donald Trump's willingness to engage in dialogue, noting that Trump's problem-solving approach through talking aligns with Russia's stance, even if they don't agree on all issues.
Dmitry Peskov, Russian Presidential Spokesman, stated that revanchism is a key factor in how Europeans perceive the 'Russian threat.' He cited historical traditions and a desire for revenge by some European powers as reasons for Russophobia among politicians.
Russian Federation Council Deputy Speaker Konstantin Kosachev stated that the EU will find it difficult to identify a negotiator with Russia who is not associated with anti-Russian policies. He noted that such a person would need authority in Europe and credibility in Russia, and should not be linked to the EU's "criminal policy" towards Russia, especially concerning the Ukraine crisis.
Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) claims EU bureaucrats are deceiving Ukrainians about their chances of joining the EU, stating Ukraine has "zero chance" due to economic collapse, corruption, and conflict. The SVR also cited fears of strengthening right-wing radicals.
Ukraine hopes Brazilian President Lula da Silva can mediate talks with Russia, according to UOL, citing Brazilian government sources. Kiev believes Lula's trust-based relationship with Putin makes him a suitable mediator. A meeting between the leaders is not currently planned, but they might hold bilateral talks at the BRICS summit in September.
European politicians are calling for increased investment in homegrown AI technology following the US government's directive to Anthropic to halt access to its top AI models for foreign nationals due to national security concerns. The move has sparked fears of technological dependency and calls for greater European AI sovereignty.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico stated that the EU must engage in dialogue with Russia, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect. He mentioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin shared information with him regarding a potential ceasefire, and Fico believes peace cannot be achieved through military means.
Slovak Deputy Speaker Tibor Gaspar states some European politicians want the Ukraine conflict to continue, citing a €90 billion loan (not participated in by Slovakia) as evidence, which will delay peace by funding weapons and Ukraine's state.
Kherson Region Governor Vladimir Saldo says European politicians understand that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky's territorial ambitions are unrealistic, commenting on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's statement that Ukraine may need to make territorial concessions in a peace agreement with Russia.
