In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling Café Society, local political junkies were abuzz this week. The topic? Not our usual Maltese political drama, but the EU’s rejection of Vladimir Putin’s proposal for Gerhard Schröder as Ukraine mediator.

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict. Schröder, known for his friendly stance towards Russia, resigned from his corporate posts in Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. But Putin’s proposal raised eyebrows in Brussels and beyond.

The European Union swiftly rejected Putin’s proposal. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell dismissed it as “not serious” and “not acceptable.” The EU’s stance is clear: no negotiations until Russia withdraws from Ukraine. In Malta, this stance resonated with our pro-European sentiment.

At the University of Malta, political science professor Dr. Joseph Borg told Hot Malta, “The EU’s response is expected. Schröder’s appointment would have been seen as rewarding Russia for its aggression.”

Malta’s Russia watchers, like those at the Mediterranean Institute of the University of Malta, were unimpressed. Dr. Alexia Tsyvinska, a Russia expert, told us, “Putin’s proposal is a distraction. It’s an attempt to divide the EU and delay sanctions.”

Locally, the proposal sparked little debate. Malta’s political parties, from the ruling Labour Party to the opposition Nationalist Party, have maintained a united front against Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The Maltese public, too, has shown solidarity with Ukraine, with numerous fundraising initiatives and protests.

As we navigate these uncertain times, one thing is clear: Malta stands firmly with the EU and Ukraine. As Dr. Borg put it, “Malta’s strategic interests lie with the EU. We must remain vigilant and united in the face of external pressures.”