Finnish President Alexander Stubb announced that technical-level peace talks between Russia and Ukraine may take place as early as next week at the Vatican. In an interview with national broadcaster Yle, Stubb expressed optimism that the meeting could include representatives from both Russia and Ukraine, as well as the United States and European countries.

He called the potential meeting a positive step toward broader international engagement in resolving the conflict in Ukraine, stating, “It is very probable that next week, for example at the Vatican, there will be a technical meeting involving Ukrainians, Russians, Americans, and Europeans.”

Stubb also highlighted the growing involvement of European nations in the peace process, noting, “We are entering a phase where Europe is also involved—and that is what we have been hoping for from the beginning.”

Earlier in the week, US President Donald Trump spoke with several European leaders, including Stubb, to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Pope Leo XIV, who had previously expressed readiness to host peace talks, also reiterated that the Vatican is prepared to facilitate the next round of negotiations.

The Vatican’s involvement in the peace process gained momentum after a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump on May 19. Following the call, Trump spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and various European leaders, including Stubb, to update them on the conversation with Putin.

Stubb stressed that while the US had initially played a leading role in mediating the conflict, the involvement of European countries in the process was crucial. “There are now more mediators,” he noted.

The proposed talks come after a meeting in Istanbul on May 16, where Russia and Ukraine discussed key issues like a 30-day ceasefire and prisoner exchanges. The Vatican’s proposed mediation could mark a significant step in advancing peace efforts, especially following failed negotiations and Russia’s demands in the ongoing conflict.