Is Vladimir Putin looking to exploit growing divisions within Europe as Washington pursues a Ukraine peace deal? Russian President Putin has signalled that Moscow is open to restoring full relations with European countries after holding rare phone talks with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Putin praised the two leaders for initiating contact, despite criticism from other European capitals, and said Russia was ready for dialogue but also prepared for a potential conflict. The calls have exposed differing approaches within Europe over engagement with Moscow, with Denmark urging allies to maintain unity. Could Putin use these new diplomatic openings to weaken Europe’s united position on Ukraine?
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