EU wants to resume dialogue with Russia - report

Recent statements by Italian and French leaders that the European Union will have to negotiate with Russia have received support both in Brussels and other European capitals, Politico reported, citing sources.

"[French President Emmanuel] Macron has been advocating in the last days that, in view of the bilateral discussions between the Americans and the Russians, it is important to play at least a role in the discussion. On the balance between not engaging and engaging, there's a growing appreciation in some [EU] capitals," a French official said.

The source added that there is a range of issues "which cannot be discussed with [only] the U.S. when they have direct implications" on the security of Europeans.

Yesterday, European Commission chief spokesperson Paula Pinho acknowledged that "at some point, there will have to be talks" with Moscow.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in turn, said that Moscow is always open to dialogue.