A dispute has emerged within the European Council regarding which leader should take the lead in diplomatic efforts with Russia. Ricardo Costa has expressed his willingness to engage in negotiations. However, he faces competition from other prominent figures, including Friedrich Merz, Emmanuel Macron, and Keir Starmer, all of whom are also seeking a role in the process. The disagreement highlights a lack of consensus on how to approach Russia diplomatically. This internal conflict could potentially complicate future negotiations and the EU’s overall strategy towards Moscow. The situation underscores the sensitivity and high stakes involved in any potential dialogue with Russia, particularly given the ongoing geopolitical tensions. The debate centers on who possesses the best position and strategy to represent the EU’s interests.