Montenegro Proposes Costa or Barroso for European Union Negotiations With Russia

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro suggested on November 13, 2026, that either António Costa, the President of the European Council, or former European Commission President Durão Barroso should represent the European Union in potential negotiations with Russia. Montenegro made these remarks on the sidelines of the European Political Community summit in Dublin. The summit brought together more than 40 European heads of state and government to discuss regional stability.

EU Representation and Negotiation Strategy

The Prime Minister stated that the selection of either António Costa or Durão Barroso should be based on their ability to embody collective European Union thinking rather than their specific nationality. Luís Montenegro emphasized the necessity for the European Union to have a single representative to reconcile non-coinciding views and participate from within active negotiations. This proposal comes as the Prime Minister criticized the current exclusion of the European Union from United States-mediated negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

The summit in Dublin serves as a significant gathering for European leaders to address ongoing geopolitical tensions. By suggesting high-level figures like the President of the European Council or a former European Commission President, the Portuguese Prime Minister aims to ensure the European Union maintains a cohesive and influential presence in diplomatic efforts involving Russia.

Russian Response to European Participation

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the prospect of European involvement in diplomatic dialogue during a meeting at the Kremlin. The meeting took place with United States special envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff. While Vladimir Putin stated that he does not oppose European participation in dialogue, he issued a significant warning regarding the nature of military presence in the region.

Vladimir Putin warned that the presence of foreign troops in Ukraine would be a legitimate target and would cause the war to restart immediately. These remarks were made following trilateral talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States that were held in Abu Dhabi. The tension between the potential for diplomatic engagement and the risks of military escalation remains a central theme in the current geopolitical landscape.

Criticism of NATO Leadership

In addition to discussing negotiation representatives, Luís Montenegro expressed dissatisfaction with current NATO leadership. The Portuguese Prime Minister criticized NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte regarding recent comments. Luís Montenegro described statements made by Mark Rutte concerning Portugal's support for Ukraine as "unfortunate" and "out of touch."

The Prime Minister's comments highlight growing friction within European security frameworks. As the European Political Community summit continues, the discussions regarding the role of the European Union and the strategic implications of foreign military presence in Ukraine remain critical components of the international diplomatic agenda.

Glossary

• European Council — The European Council is the committee of leaders of the Member States of the European Communities. It is an organization that meets to discuss matters such as membership negotiations.
• European Commission — The European Commission is an institution that manages various agendas, such as the reform of institutions and the creation of a single market for services. Its president is chosen by the European Council.
• NATO — NATO is an international organization that involves various member countries. It is a framework for security that includes a Secretary-General.
• European Political Community — The European Political Community was an institution proposed under the Pleven Plan of 1951. It was intended to tie together the institutions of the developing European community.