BRUSSELS

The European Union on Monday welcomed the ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the Moscow-Kyiv war, while stressing that there was no EU-level participation in recent peace talks in the US.

Speaking at the European Commission's midday briefing, spokesperson Anouar El Anouni reiterated the EU's support for a "comprehensive, just, and lasting peace" in Ukraine, based on the "principles of the UN Charter and international law."

"We, the EU, welcome the ongoing diplomatic efforts to put an end to the war and urge Russia to agree to a full, unconditional, and immediate ceasefire, to which Ukraine continues to be committed, and to engage in meaningful negotiations toward a just and lasting peace," El Anouni said.

He added that the EU and its member states remain committed to actively participating in peace efforts and will continue coordinating with member states regarding bilateral contacts aimed at achieving sustainable peace in Ukraine.

Addressing media reports suggesting that EU representatives were present at recent peace talks in the US state of Florida, EU Commission spokesperson Olof Gill said there was no EU-level involvement.

Asked about French President Emmanuel Macron's remarks suggesting it may be time to restart talks with Russia, Gill declined to speculate, describing such scenarios as hypothetical.

"What we can say is that, and I've said it before from this podium, that the path to peace is not straight or linear, and any efforts that contribute to securing a just and lasting peace for Ukraine are welcomed," he said.

Mercosur-EU deal

Turning to the deal between the EU and the South American bloc Mercosur, Gill said the EU believes the agreement could be concluded swiftly, noting that discussions with member states will continue into the new year.

"We do believe there is a sense of urgency, because we're very close to the finish line," Gill said, describing the Mercosur agreement as "of immense importance, economically, diplomatically, and geopolitically."

"It would send a signal to the rest of the world that in a time of economic fragmentation, in a time of tariffs and increasing uncertainty, by playing by the rules, by working together based on rules, trusted partners can still achieve great things," he added.

The commission expects to further consult with member states in the coming days and early in the new year, to seal the agreement so that it can be signed by the commission on behalf of the EU "as soon as possible," he added.

Addressing concerns related to food safety and standards, Gill underlined that the EU would not compromise on its regulatory framework.

Mercosur includes Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, and its negotiations with the EU have been ongoing for more than two decades.

The push to conclude the deal comes despite opposition from some member states, including France and Italy, and amid broader protests by European farmers who have raised concerns over competition, environmental rules, and agricultural imports.