# Diplomatic Proposal: Inviting Putin to the EU Summit A radical suggestion to overcome internal European divisions regarding communication with the Kremlin. - **Source:** [Süddeutsche Zeitung](https://www.sueddeutsche.de) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6aadd970-5761-4ccf-a3ac-12353edc13f3 ## Proposed Collective Engagement The suggestion involves inviting Vladimir Putin directly to an EU summit to address the ongoing conflict. This radical idea aims to bypass the current impasse where member states struggle to agree on who should represent the bloc in talks. It shifts the focus from individual negotiations to a unified European stance. ## Internal European Fragmentation Member states currently project an image of a weak, argumentative, and jealous collective. Disagreements over diplomatic protocol and individual national interests hinder a cohesive strategy toward the Kremlin. This internal friction prevents the European Union from acting as a singular, powerful entity during critical geopolitical negotiations regarding the war in Ukraine. ## Overcoming Diplomatic Deadlock If individual leaders cannot reach a consensus on who is authorized to speak with the Russian president, the proposal suggests a collective approach. By involving all member states simultaneously, the bloc could potentially eliminate the internal competition that currently paralyzes their diplomatic efforts. It forces a unified front against external pressure. ## Challenging Traditional Protocols Inviting a leader currently sanctioned or isolated by many Western nations represents a significant departure from standard diplomatic norms. Such a move would force every EU member to confront the reality of the conflict face-to-face. It tests the limits of European unity and the willingness to engage with adversaries directly. ## Strategic Implications of Unity A collective summit presence would prevent individual nations from pursuing separate, potentially conflicting agendas with Moscow. This strategy aims to strengthen the European position by ensuring that no single country can be played off against another. It serves as a mechanism to enforce discipline and transparency within the union's foreign policy. ## Historical Diplomatic Precedents Historically, large-scale summits have been used to manage tensions between opposing powers during periods of intense conflict. While unconventional, direct dialogue in a multilateral setting can sometimes clarify red lines and intentions. This approach contrasts with the current fragmented communication channels that often lead to misunderstandings and delayed policy responses. ## Risks of Direct Dialogue Engaging directly with the Kremlin carries substantial political risks for EU leaders, including potential backlash from domestic constituencies. There is also the danger that such a summit could be used for propaganda purposes by the Russian side. Balancing the need for communication with the necessity of maintaining firm geopolitical principles remains. ## Future Policy Considerations The proposal highlights the urgent need for the European Union to redefine its diplomatic architecture. Whether or not Putin is invited, the debate underscores the necessity of overcoming internal jealousy and indecision. Future stability depends on the bloc's ability to speak with one voice rather than continuing as a divided group. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.sueddeutsche.de/meinung/ukraine-russland-europa-usa-abu-dhabi-kommentar-li.3578666 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._