U.S. NATO chief says Russia’s approach to Ukraine talks unhelpful

Published 12/06/2025, 11:38
U.S. NATO chief says Russia’s approach to Ukraine talks unhelpful

Investing.com -- NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte criticized Russia’s approach to peace talks with Ukraine on Thursday, describing it as "not helpful."

Rutte pointed out that Russia has sent a historian to talks in Istanbul twice, who begins discussions by referencing events from 1,000 years ago and suggesting Ukraine is responsible for the conflict.

"The Russians are sending this historian now twice to these talks in Istanbul, trying to start with the history of 1,000 years ago and then explaining more or less that Ukraine is at fault here. I think that’s not helpful," Rutte said.

Despite his criticism of Russia’s negotiating tactics, the NATO chief expressed some optimism about the diplomatic process. "But at least, step by step, we try to make progress," he added.

Rutte made these remarks before meeting with foreign affairs ministers from Italy, Britain, France, Germany, Poland and Spain in Rome.

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