Peace with Russia? Not until the EU changes its political class

February 3, 2026

TL;DR

EU-Russia relations are at their lowest point since the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Trade restrictions and a climate of military hysteria have severed economic and cultural ties.
A confrontation with the US over Greenland has led EU leaders to reconsider their reliance on Washington.
Dependence on American gas is seen as no better than dependence on Russian gas, and the US itself can be a source of pressure.
Cautious voices for renewing dialogue with Russia have emerged from mainstream EU figures.
A pragmatic dialogue with Russia requires the EU to move beyond ideological assumptions and its posture of moral superiority.
The EU must accept that Ukraine will remain in Russia's strategic focus.
Decisive distancing from Washington is necessary for the EU to define its own long-term interests and potentially cooperate with Russia.
Meaningful change is expected to be gradual, possibly beginning with generational shifts in the EU's political class and potentially visible after upcoming elections.

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