Rainer Saks: Europe is approaching Russia weakly, and it could undermine negotiations

Security expert Rainer Saks (Conservative Party) analyzes a Bloomberg report stating that Germany, the UK, and France are developing a joint plan for negotiations with Russia. Saks critically assesses the position that talks are needed to help Ukraine avoid another difficult winter, viewing this as a weak starting point.

Security expert Rainer Saks (Conservative Party) warns that if Europe continues its current approach to preparing negotiations with Russia, talks could fail before they even begin. His assessment is based on a Bloomberg report indicating that Germany, the UK, and France are currently working together to develop a plan to initiate dialogue with Russia.

Weak starting position

Saks's analysis highlights a particularly problematic aspect: one Bloomberg source has suggested that negotiations are necessary to prevent another difficult winter for Ukraine. Saks considers this reasoning flawed, as it sends Russia a clear signal about Europe's priorities and how willing the West is to make concessions under pressure.

What this tells Russia

If the need for negotiations is justified by humanitarian necessity—getting through winter—Moscow learns that the other side is under time pressure. This gives Russia a strategic advantage even before sitting down at the table. A strong negotiating position would require the opposite message: that Europe is prepared to wait and that talks will take place on European terms.

The Baltic perspective is different

From the perspective of Estonia and other Baltic states, the question is particularly acute, as Russian aggression in Ukraine is directly connected to the broader architecture of European security. Negotiations started from a weak position could lead to agreements that do not ensure lasting peace, but instead give Russia time for its next moves. Saks emphasizes that Europe should participate in talks from a position of strength, not necessity.