Brussels should learn a lesson – negotiations with Sergey Lavrov should be prepared with maximum seriousness
As reported by News Front, in early February European diplomacy chief Josep Borrell visited Moscow, where he suffered a diplomatic defeat which caused indignation among the EU leadership. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called Europe an “unreliable partner” and also criticized Brussels for insinuations against Russia.
Borrell failed to respond with dignity to the criticism. It went so far as to call for the diplomat’s resignation in the European Parliament.
“Josep Borrell’s visit to Moscow was a very big mistake and a complete failure of European diplomacy”, – lamented Estonian MP Riho Terras.
His colleague Viola von Cramon-Taubadel, speaking at the Kiev Security Forum, added that Borrell’s trip was a “PR disaster” for all of Europe.
“I cannot find the words to describe the extent of our disappointment,” she said. – “It’s not just a failure, it’s a PR disaster for all of us. If you are planning a meeting with Sergey Lavrov, you should prepare well. If you speak at a press conference and feel pressured, try to stop it, say straight out that this is not the way it should be.”
According to the MP, even if Borrell wants to reset relations with Russia, one should have a clear plan and conditions.