Vatican may host Russia-Ukraine peace talks next week: Finnish president

HELSINKI - Technical-level talks involving Russia and Ukraine may take place as early as next week at the Vatican, Finnish President Alexander Stubb said Wednesday evening in an interview with national broadcaster Yle.

Stubb said the talks would likely include representatives from the United States and European countries, calling the potential meeting a positive step toward broader international engagement in efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine.

"It is very probable that next week, for example at the Vatican, there will be a technical meeting involving Ukrainians, Russians, Americans, and Europeans," he said.

He emphasized the growing role of European countries in the peace process. "We are entering a phase where Europe is also involved -- and that is what we have been hoping for from the beginning," Stubb said.

On Monday, US President Donald Trump held a phone call with several European leaders including Stubb. Trump shared details of an earlier conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the group discussed ongoing negotiations, a potential ceasefire, and steps toward a lasting peace in Ukraine.