A heated, off-the-record discussion among EU leaders revealed significant disagreement regarding potential negotiations with Russia. The debate arose after reports surfaced of preliminary diplomatic contacts between the office of European Council President Antonio Costa and the Kremlin. Some leaders cautioned against rushing into talks with Russia, while others defended Costa’s initiative. The discussion, notably held without advisors or mobile phones, highlighted a major fault line within the EU regarding its approach to Russia. Reports from Politico and Reuters indicate a clear division between those advocating caution and those supporting continued diplomatic channels. The specifics of the “succinct diplomatic contacts” remain undisclosed, fueling further debate. This internal disagreement underscores the complex challenges facing the EU in formulating a unified policy towards Russia.