[Interview] Italy’s Meloni is EU’s best hope of charming Putin in Ukraine peace talks, former Russian spy says

Former Russian spy Sergei believes Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni could charm Vladimir Putin into a peace deal, despite no current signs of Putin wanting to end the Ukraine conflict. Meloni's charisma and unpredictability may appeal to Putin. The EU leaders will discuss appointing a high-level envoy for Russia at an upcoming summit, following Meloni's criticism of current European diplomacy. Meanwhile, several officials are participating in US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi, with plans for a more formal negotiation team by December 17.