PARIS, August 12. /TASS/. Europe has little say in the Ukrainian settlement, with its assistance to Kiev shrinking, a French diplomat has said.

"Europe has little leverage. It still can help Ukraine but lesser and lesser. The amount of financing Kiev wants to have is unthinkable for European countries with their weakened economies. Apart from that, Brussels’ resolution may block those states that are oriented to Russia to a greater extent, such as Hungary and Slovakia," said Jean de Gliniasty, France’s former Ambassador to Moscow (2009-2013).

The Europeans, in his words, have found themselves on the outside of the settlement process because of their one-sided position. "Europe is sticking to the pro-Ukrainian position and hence, has no room for negotiations. By the way, this is a gross diplomatic mistake, if it claims to play the role of a mediator or a coordinator. Support is offered to Vladimir Zelensky only, which in no way may help consolidate the negotiating stance," he said.

A joint declaration issued by the European Commission, along with the leaders from Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Finland, and Britain on August 10 urges US President Donald Trump to negotiate with Russia only under the condition of a ceasefire and with a focus on safeguarding Ukraine and European security interests. The document, published ahead of the planned Trump-Putin summit, underscores Europe’s intent to influence the diplomatic process and prioritize regional stability.