Macron wants Putin's ear, Zelensky ignored? Kremlin ends silence on France's move amid EU confusion

Europe’s Ukraine strategy hit fresh turbulence as France signalled openness to talks with Vladimir Putin amid growing cracks inside the EU. As Macron signals readiness for renewed dialogue with Moscow, the Kremlin calls for “understanding, not lectures.” Peskov confirms Putin is open to talks if there is “mutual political will.” Is this Europe’s diplomatic backpedal or the rebirth of realpolitik?